Dallas Cowboys: Offensive line on the verge of collapse

1 of 4

ARLINGTON, TX – SEPTEMBER 10: La’el Collins #71 of the Dallas Cowboys, Travis Frederick #72 of the Dallas Cowboys, and Zack Martin #70 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrate the touchdown by Jason Witten #82 of the Dallas Cowboys in the first half of a game at AT&T Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

The Dallas Cowboys have built their offense around a strong running game. The offensive line has made this possible. But what happens if the line implodes?

The Dallas Cowboys have invested a great deal in their offensive line. They have made it the centerpiece of their offense. While the league gets smaller and faster, the Cowboys have gone bigger and stronger. As a result, they have one of the most devastating rushing attacks in the league.

However, the newest version of the Great Wall of Dallas is starting to crack. To compound matters, the proliferation of spread offenses in college, good offensive linemen are hard to draft and develop. If the offensive line starts to fall apart, there may not be reinforcements on the way.

This offensive line could be on the verge of collapse. This is the worst-case scenario. Yet, it is a real possibility the Cowboys may be facing this season.

Center Travis Frederick has been a model of consistency. He is barely recognized for his work, not making the NFL’s Top 100 players last season. But his work in the middle is masterful. The center of any offensive line is the glue that holds it all together. Depending on the offense, they could make the line calls and set the protections.

To lose a center is painful to any team. But to lose a Travis Frederick is devastating. Frederick was recently diagnosed with Guillian-Barre Syndrome. There is currently no timetable set for his return.

What will the Cowboys do until his return?

Home/Dallas Cowboys