Michael Gallup will open the season on the Dallas Cowboys’ 53-man roster, ensuring he’s at least eligible to play in Week 1.
Jerry Jones admitted that wide receiver will not be playing against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Tuesday’s interview with 105.3 (h/t Pro Football Talk). The Cowboys owner insists that Gallup can play if faced with a more difficult game.
“If this were the Super Bowl, Gallup would be lining up and playing,” Jones said. “If against Tampa were the Super Bowl, he would be lining up and playing. And, so, we’re going to be cautious — not cautious, but conservative — with him. He won’t be out there more than likely against Tampa, but if it were the Super Bowl, he’d be playing. He’s that ready.”
The season opener against the Bucs is a big game, but not the Super Bowl, of course. But if it was, Jerry Jones said Michael Gallup would be there.
— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) August 30, 2022
Gallup tore his ACL during Week 17 of the 2021 season. He had 445 receiving yards and scored two touchdowns. In spite of the injury, the Cowboys extended his contract for five years to $62.5 million.
According to Jon Machota of The Athletic, Mike McCarthy, Gallup’s head coach, said that Gallup is “looking excellent” during his recovery.
“He’s getting close,” McCarthy said Wednesday. “He’s hit every target. His rehab is going very smooth. Just staying on the plan. He’s still working in the rehab group.”
Mike McCarthy on Cowboys WR Michael Gallup (knee): “Looks excellent. He’s getting close. He’s hit every target. His rehab is going very smooth. Just staying on the plan. He’s still working in the rehab group.”
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) August 31, 2022
Gallup denied the possibility of a Week 1 return last week . That still seems like a distant possibility. The 26-year old may still be able to play in September.
Gallup could be back for the Cowboys as soon as possible. They lost star receiver Amari Cooper, a free-agent signing to the Cleveland Browns. Washington broke his foot and will be starting the season on the ineligible reserve.