IRVING, Texas -- DeMarcus Lawrence is two games into his NFL career, and the Dallas Cowboys rookie defensive end is getting a little antsy for his first sack.
"It feels like it's right there," Lawrence said. "It's just that tenth of a second, just making your move a little quicker, getting to the level of the quarterback fast. It's just working on those little small details and getting off the ball."
The Cowboys coaches have credited Lawrence with four tackles and two quarterback hurries, but defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli is a notoriously tough grader.
"It's only been a couple of games, but I'm just trying to work, develop my character and get my instincts back to normal," Lawrence said.
While Lawrence waits for that first sack, his work against the rush has been impressive. According to ESPN Stats & Information, the Cowboys have allowed 44 yards on 22 carries with Lawrence on the field. With Lawrence off the field, opponents have averaged 4.7 yards per rush.
While most of the Cowboys enjoyed having the last week, Lawrence might have been better served to keep playing since he missed the first eight games of the season recovering from foot surgery. But he was glad to have the two days of practice
"Just go get my mindset back focused on the next goal, just moving on," Lawrence said.
Lawrence has been leaning on fellow defensive end Jeremy Mincey for advice since they play the same position.
"I want to see him get that first sack, man, so he can get that confidence and start rushing off the edge like we know he's capable of," Mincey said. "He's been doing a really good job. He's getting back there. It's just time to get home."
Mincey remembers his first sack. It came against the Tennessee Titans, dropping Vince Young for a 7-yard loss with Reggie Hayward in 2007.
"It felt great, especially the situation the sack came in," Mincey said. "I've always had a knack for making that play. I might not make all the plays in the world, but I tell you what, I got the heart and hustle and the effort to make that one play that can help us win."
He's hoping Lawrence starts making them too.