IRVING, Texas (Oct. 17, 2005) -- The Dallas Cowboys learned that left tackle Flozell Adams is out for the season with torn knee ligaments, a major blow to an offensive line that's been a big reason for the success of quarterback Drew Bledsoe.
The offense took another hit with news that receiver Patrick Crayton is out at least a month with an ankle injury. However, it's not broken, as coach Bill Parcells feared following a 16-13 overtime victory against the New York Giants on Oct. 16. Parcells said a better diagnosis was expected Oct. 18.
Peerless Price is an easy replacement for Crayton as the third receiver, and it means swapping a current Bledsoe favorite for one of his past favorites. Price also will be a candidate to replace Crayton on punt returns, too, as are Terence Newman and Marion Barber.
Replacing Adams is more difficult.
Torrin Tucker, who was limited to special teams the first five games, took over in the second half Sunday and Parcells said he did "some good, some bad."
He's the only backup tackle on the roster, and he appears to be the front-runner.
"That's the best recourse we have," Parcells said. "He knows the system."
Parcells also said he'll consider moving someone from elsewhere on the line to fill what's considered the most important spot because it protects the quarterback's blind side. The main options are left guard Larry Allen and rookie Rob Petitti.
Allen last played left tackle in 1998, making the Pro Bowl that season. Petitti, who played left tackle in college, has started every game at right tackle since beating out Tucker for that job in training camp.
Parcells said the club could sign a tackle. Workouts already are being planned with several players.
Dallas also could make a trade before the league deadline Oct. 18.
