Dallas faces a stiff Week 1 test on the defensive line against Philadelphia. Interior anchors Osa Odighizuwa, Solomon Thomas, Mazi Smith and Kenny Clark must hold the line and shed blocks, while edge contributors Marshawn Kneeland, Dante Fowler Jr., and Donavan Ezeiruaku pressure Hurts’ downhill runs. Philadelphia’s zone schemes and Barkley-driven short-yardage plays loom large, with Landon Dickerson health lingering. Perrion Winfrey’s status adds depth questions. A disciplined, gap-smart run defense could tilt the game in Dallas’ favor and boost fantasy upside for the Cowboys’ line.

Dallas initially reported Perrion Winfrey’s release, then reversed course and kept him on the 53-man roster. The interior defensive line was a camp issue, and Winfrey arrived with All-UFL credentials from Birmingham (29 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 4 pass breakups, a forced fumble, and a sack in 10 games) that gave him a real shot to contribute.

With ties to Dallas staffers Aaron Whitecotton and Tanzel Smart, Winfrey could be a rotational disruptor to bolster run defense and interior pressure. The Aug. 26 deadline looms as Dallas looks to maximize this depth move and its fantasy upside around the middle of the line.

LSU wrapped its 21st preseason session with notable absences as it readies for a top-10 Week 1 clash at Clemson. Center Braelin Moore sat out early, and freshman Caruis Curne and Weston Davis were limited or out, signaling ongoing evaluation along the right tackle spot. Solomon Thomas missed the session with a leg issue, while Nic Anderson didn’t dress for practice, though he’s been healthy lately. Dominick McKinley, plus defenders Austin Ausberry, C.J. Jackson and Keylan Moses, were also out. The team focused on situational reps and scout-team work as LSU prepares for Aug. 30 at Memorial Stadium.

Kelly and staff plan to address the absences inMonday media availability as LSU tightens its depth ahead of the Clemson showdown. With several key pieces sidelined or managing workload, the Tigers’ depth chart and protection schemes will be tested early, especially on the offensive line and in the pass rush. The scrimmage-like practice emphasized situational execution and special teams, setting the stage for a high-stakes opener.

Dallas will navigate cutdown day with two returnable IR slots to shield two injured players, freeing roster space for younger talent. Beyond that, the Cowboys may use handshake deals with veterans who aren’t claimed to re-add them after other moves, keeping the 53 flexible. Three veterans are highlighted as likely candidates for such a plan: Sanders, Collins and Thomas, each offering a path to balance immediate needs with future upside.

Sanders could be cut or bumped to the practice squad with a return scenario, potentially opening the door for rookie backs on the roster. Collins remains a versatile protection option to preserve Ajani Cornelius on the 53, while Thomas could anchor interior depth if rotation shifts. The approach lets Dallas protect two key youngsters on returnable IR while evaluating fits in real time, a move fantasy players should watch as Week 1 vs Philadelphia approaches.

The Dallas Cowboys are betting on their seventh-round rookie defensive tackle Tommy Akingbesote to make a significant impact this season. Despite the team's long-standing struggle to solidify their defensive tackle position, they opted not to make big free-agent moves and instead focused on the draft. They selected Akingbesote alongside Jay Toia to bolster their defensive line, which has lacked depth and consistency in recent years.

Akingbesote, weighing in at 316 pounds and standing 6-foot-4, is expected to compete vigorously during training camp. His unique skill set may provide the Cowboys with the run-stopping presence they have sought. With the team focusing on developing young talent, Akingbesote's performance will be crucial in determining the success of the Cowboys' defensive strategy this season.