The Cowboys have some quality depth at defensive end, which will likely be called upon this week against the Patriots as Jason Hatcher was again a no-show for Thursday's practice at Valley Ranch.
Hatcher has been out with a strained calf he suffered early in the Redskins game on Sept. 26 and has now missed two straight days of practice. Even if Hatcher is able to practice on Friday, it's unlikely he would start the game.
The good news for the Cowboys is that Marcus Spears will likely start instead. Spears does have 79 career starts, although just one this year. Hatcher replaced him in the starting lineup to begin the season although Rob Ryan does use a healthy rotation on the line.
With Hatcher out, look for Sean Lissemore to get more snaps and the Cowboys might even consider making Clifton Geathers active for the first time this year.
As for other injuries, fullback Tony Fiammetta was on the field at the start of practice. It's unclear yet whether he was limited or at full participation. Fiammetta has been out with a hamstring injury since Week Two in San Francisco.
