FRISCO, Texas – Defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence is now eligible to return to the Cowboys' active roster after completing his four-game suspension for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.
Lawrence, the team's leader in sacks last season (eight), was permitted to take part in training camp and preseason before his suspension took effect.
"Hopefully he'll get acclimated to practice as the week goes on," Garrett said Monday. "We'll take his situation day by day. We're excited to have him back, though."
The Cowboys have a one-week roster exemption for Lawrence, who can return to practice this week. In order for him to play in Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals, they would have to activate him by Saturday, which would require creating an open roster spot.
Looking for more pass rush, Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli has mixed up his defensive line rotation in Lawrence's absence. He moved defensive tackle Tyrone Crawford outside to left defensive end, where Lawrence started 13 games last season.
Jack Crawford, Benson Mayowa and recently-signed Ryan Davis have rotated at right defensive end.
