Brandon

Knight

Knight started nine games for the Cowboys last year and primarily manned the left side of the line. The Ravens have been without left tackle Ronnie Stanley (ankle) since Week 1. Knight received a poor grade by Pro Football Focus last year but still offers Baltimore some extra depth at a crucial position. Baltimore’s move to add him could also be a sign that Stanley is still far from returning.

Erving was grabbing his knee before walking to the locker room with a trainer, and just moments later, RT Zack Martin went down with a leg injury of his own. Last week against the Vikings, the Cowboys offensive line looked functional for the first time in months. Andy Dalton can’t afford to have below-average tackles. Brandon Knight is in Erving’s spot.

Knight started every game Tyron Smith missed at left tackle before his Week 7 knee injury. It’s unclear if he’ll regain his fill-in starting LT job immediately with Cam Erving available, if he’ll start at another position, or act as the top backup at multiple positions. Either way, his return is a slight positive for an offensive line looking for answers.

Knight started last week with LT Tyron Smith sidelined, so this is yet another injury to an offensive line that’s struggled all year. Andy Dalton needs better protection to have a shot of sustained success. Slightly downgrading real-life and fantasy expectations for Dallas is wise. Knight underwent surgery on Tuesday.

Smith will be listed as a DNP at Friday’s practice, though the All-Pro tackle is expected to get in some side work. The Cowboys would pivot to Cameron Fleming and Brandon Knight at tackle if Smith and La’El Collins (knee) can’t go Sunday in East Rutherford.