Cowboys Off To A Bad Start

I had high hopes as the Cowboys opened their training camp this week, but I'm starting to wonder if those hopes were misplaced. Last year the Cowboys were plagued by injuries, and I had hoped that was now behind them. But with the team only a couple of days into training camp, it seems like the injuries are already starting to pile up.

The offensive line was one of the areas that need to improve this year, but the camp opened with both starting guards (Nate Livings and Mackenzy Bernadeau) sitting out due to minor injuries -- and they were joined by guard Ronald Leary (who was expected to compete for a starting position). While the Cowboys say all three just have minor problems and will soon be back, it certainly doesn't inspire confidence that our offensive line will be improved when the top three guards aren't ready to go on opening day of training camp.

Then, on the first day of camp two other Cowboys who are expected to contribute heavily this year (defensive lineman Jay Ratliff and tight end James Hanna) injured their hamstrings and are now sitting out practices. Both are supposed to just be "sprained" hamstrings, and word is they will be back soon -- but once again, it doesn't inspire confidence to have them injured on the first day of camp.

Then we have two more players with much more serious injuries -- defensive ends Anthony Spencer and Tyrone Crawford. Both were expected to be an integral part of the new and improved defense this year. Spencer injured his knee and will need minor surgery -- surgery that will keep him out from 2 to 4 weeks. Crawford's injury is much more serious -- having torn his Achilles tendon. He will be out for the entire season.

And all of this happened before the pads were put on and any real hitting started. I must admit, I'm getting a little worried. What's going to happen once the hitting starts? Is this just some bad luck? Or is it the result of a poor training program? If it's bad luck, it could change. But if it's the result of a poor training program, then we're in for another long injury-plagued season (and that's a depressing thought to be having this early).

Maybe I'm wrong, and there's nothing to worry about. I certainly hope so. But I'm going to be crossing my fingers and holding my breath for the next few days. It's just too much, too soon.