IRVING, Texas – As Marshawn Lynch ran for 100 of his 122 yards in the second half of Sunday’s loss to Seattle, the absence of nose tackle Jay Ratliff popped into some minds.
It should be noted, however, that Lynch ran for 135 yards on 23 carries and a touchdown against the Cowboys last season when Ratliff was in the lineup.
“Jay’s a great football player, we know that,” coach Jason Garrett said. “He’s been a Pro Bowl player for us and one of our leaders, but injuries happen in football. You have to put the next guy in and you have to go forward. We’re excited to get him back when he’s healthy.”
Garrett is not sure if Ratliff, who is recovering from a high ankle sprain suffered Aug. 25 against St. Louis, will be ready to go this week against Tampa Bay. His return could coincide with the loss of defensive end Kenyon Coleman, who suffered a hyperextended knee against the Seahawks.
“He’s making progress,” Garrett said.