DALLAS – The Cowboys have taken steps to strengthen their defensive line this offseason by signing Cedric Thornton and Benson Mayowa in free agency, as well as re-signing Jack Crawford.
They're also getting another addition: Terrell McClain's return from injury.
The five-year veteran spent the final 14 games on injured reserve last season after suffering an injury to his toe in Week 2 that required surgery.
Linebacker Sean Lee had the same injury in 2012 and missed the final 10 games after surgery. He returned healthy for the start of 2013.
"It's the same exact injury. It's the same deal," McClain said last week at the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas with WWE stars and fellow Cowboys teammates as part of Wrestlemania Week. "He told me about his surgery, what I was going to go through. Talking to him actually helped me through it."
McClain is looking forward to getting back on the field with his teammates. The injury was certainly frustrating, and during the time off he focused on getting healthy with the athletic training staff.
In 15 games with the Cowboys since 2014, McClain has 19 tackles, one sack and one forced fumble. Thornton, who signed a four-year deal in March, could step in as a starting tackle next to Tyrone Crawford. McClain has the versatility to help out at both spots. He's willing to pitch in wherever needed.
"I just want to play football," he said.
