Cowboys make roster space for returning star player

The Dallas Cowboys made a roster move on Wednesday to prepare space for the return of a key star player, following his reactivation by the NFL. Fullback Nick Ralston was released and signed to the Cowboys’ practice squad as tackle La’el Collins is set to return from his five-game suspension for violating the NFL’s drug testing policies.

Cowboys clear roster space

The Cowboys have waived fullback Nick Ralston, reported The Athletic’s Jon Machota. “The move opens up a roster spot for RT La’el Collins, who is returning from a 5-game suspension.”

Shortly after sharing that Ralston had been released, Machota confirmed he was signed to the Cowboys’ practice squad.

“The Cowboys signed fullback Nick Ralston to their practice squad on Wednesday.”

With Collins returning, the Cowboys needed to open up a roster space and unfortunately Ralston is the player they chose. Ralston has been used on special teams for the Cowboys in their last four games, and has only taken one snap with the offense so far this season.

Collins was suspending initially for five games following a series of missed drug test appointments as part of the NFL’s drug testing policy. The NFLPA negotiated on his behalf and were able to get the suspension reduced to just two games.

Collins was not satisfied with the new suspension terms either and asked for the suspension to be fully overruled and the NFLPA brought in an arbitrator to hear the case. After presented with all information and additional information that Collins attempted to bribe one of the NFL drug testing officials, the arbitrator recommended the suspension be upheld and increased to the original five games.

Collins then appealed the arbitrator’s ruling through the US court system, and the court ruled that his suspension would be upheld after all.

Cowboys success with Collins out

Although Collins was out for five games, the Cowboys’ offense did pretty well in his absence. Since Collins’ suspension, the Cowboys have gone 5-0 and have beaten the AFC West-leading Los Angeles Chargers, thanks to the offensive play and leadership of quarterback Dak Prescott.

Prescott has thrown at least three touchdown passes in four of their last five games. Dallas has also seen a resurgence of their rushing attack in that time. Starting running back Ezekiel Elliott is now top three in the NFL in rushing attempts, yards and touchdowns. The Cowboys owe a big credit to Terrence Steele, as the backup right tackle put in a solid performance in Collins’ absence.

The Cowboys’ next game will be a Sunday night matchup, on Halloween night against the Minnesota Vikings.

On3’s Justin Rudolph contributed to this article.