Here's Why Matt Waletzko's Shoulder Injury is Concerning For the Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys Head Coach, Mike McCarthy, said the team is still evaluating rookie backup tackle Matt Waletzko’s shoulder injury that he suffered earlier in the week. But, the team has alluded to surgery being a matter of when not if, at this stage of the injury. 

The Cowboys hope Waletzko can play through the injury and take care of it after the season.

However, there's also a significant chance he gets shut down for the season, according to the Pro Football Docs.

Matt Waletzko injury history

Waletzko's left shoulder injury that dates back to college. He can play through as a right tackle because it would be his inside arm, but as a left tackle his shoulder would be under increased stress and would be more susceptible to injury, according to the Pro Football Docs.

Matt Waletzko was the 155th pick in this year’s NFL draft. Before being selected by the Dallas Cowboys, he played in the FCS for North Dakota. At his NFL combine, he produced eye-opening numbers that ranked him as one of the most athletic offensive tackles ever.

During his senior year at North Dakota, he sustained a similar shoulder injury. But, even after injury, he received honors as an all-conference player.

He was able to play through the issue in the Senior Bowl in college, but making the jump to the pros with that shoulder injury is another issue entirely.

Waletzko entered training camp in an unofficial battle for the leading swing tackle position on the Cowboy’s depth chart. It’s been reported that he was supposed to be the backup tackle to Tyron Smith, whose injuries have forced him only to play 13 games over the last two seasons. 

The Cowboys decided to release former starting tackle La’el Collins earlier this offseason, which promoted former swing tackle Terrance Steele to the starting lineup.

The Cowboys need Waletzko’s injury to be sustainable if they want a viable backup left tackle. Look for the team to sign a veteran free agent tackle if Waletzko gets shut down.