The Dallas Cowboys, reeling from a significant blow to their offensive line, have made a strategic move to bolster their roster. On Wednesday, ESPN’s Todd Archer reported that the team is signing former Indianapolis Colts center Wesley French to their practice squad. This decision comes in the wake of devastating news for Cowboys fans: starting center Cooper Beebe will be sidelined for six to eight weeks due to a lateral ankle sprain and a fracture in his foot.
French, a 28-year-old lineman, brings much-needed depth and versatility to the Cowboys’ offensive line. Originally an undrafted free agent signed by the Colts in 2022, French appeared in all 17 games for Indianapolis in 2023, starting in three. During that season, he earned Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades of 56.7 in pass-blocking and 47.5 in run-blocking. While these numbers don’t scream elite, they reflect a serviceable player with experience at both center and guard, making him a valuable addition to a Cowboys team scrambling to fill the void left by Beebe.
The Cowboys’ offensive line has been a cornerstone of their success, and Beebe’s injury is a significant setback. The rookie center, who had been anchoring the line, suffered the injury at a critical point in the season. With Dallas preparing to face the Chicago Bears in Week 3 at Soldier Field, the team needed to act swiftly to maintain stability up front.
Enter Wesley French. While he didn’t make the Colts’ 53-man roster out of training camp this year, French showed flashes of potential during the preseason. He allowed three pressures but no sacks, posting PFF grades of 54.1 in pass-blocking and 52.7 in run-blocking. His ability to play multiple positions along the interior line makes him an ideal practice squad addition, providing insurance should further injuries arise.
In the immediate term, Brock Hoffman is expected to step into Beebe’s role as the starting center. Hoffman, who filled in admirably for Zack Martin during the final seven games of last season, expressed confidence in his ability to rise to the occasion. “I definitely feel for Coop, obviously getting hurt,” Hoffman said. “You never want anybody to get hurt, but in terms of me, it’s the same thing as last year… I’m ready for whatever opportunity comes. I just always have a motto of stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. That’s what I’m here to do. I’m here to ball out and help this team keep getting wins.”
Hoffman’s readiness and French’s signing give the Cowboys a two-pronged approach to addressing their center crisis. While Hoffman takes the reins, French’s presence on the practice squad ensures the team has a capable backup with NFL experience. This move not only stabilizes the roster but also sends a message to the NFL: the Cowboys are not letting adversity derail their season.
As Cowboys Nation processes the loss of Beebe, the addition of French offers a glimmer of hope. With a tough matchup against the Bears looming, Dallas will need every ounce of resilience and depth to keep their playoff aspirations alive. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome will be tested, but with Hoffman stepping up and French waiting in the wings, the Cowboys are positioning themselves to weather this storm.