IRVING, Texas -- Veteran inside linebacker and defensive captain Bradie James has accepted reduced playing time this season, even volunteering to play special teams. Last Sunday against Buffalo, he played one defensive snap.
The primary reason was Buffalo's spread attack that often featured four wide receivers. Cornerback Frank Walker started in place of James, and the Cowboys often used their nickel defense in the 44-7 win.
As long as Sean Lee (wrist) is healthy enough to play, James will likely continue to split snaps with Keith Brooking in the base defense. But he does anticipate a bigger role this Sunday against Washington, which uses more two-back and two-tight end sets.
"It's old-school ball this week," James said.
"What you see is what you get from them. They're not going to try to sugarcoat it, which is what we like. It's two teams that know each other really well. They're going to try to run the ball, impose their will."
James ranks eighth defense with 30 team-credited tackles. The free agent to be has led the team in tackles for the last six seasons but says stats are irrelevant. He just wants to win during what could be his final season in Dallas.
