Danny

McCray

Frampton is expected to remain the starter for next week’s game with the Redskins. He was officially credited with two tackles in the loss, and doesn’t project as an upgrade. Danny McCray has struggled mightily since taking over for Barry Church earlier this season and is being relegated to special teams.

The tender will pay McCray $1.323 million. McCray started ten games in 2012 and recorded 71 tackles and an interception. He’s been the Cowboys’ top special teams player for the last couple of seasons, and -- ideally -- he’ll go back to that role this year.

A special teams dynamo, injuries forced McCray into the starting lineup last season, where he struggled. Perhaps the Cowboys view the experience as a plus, regardless of McCray’s effectiveness. Only 25 (in March), McCray will come cheap for a team that needs cheap players.

McCray, 25, made 10 starts last season, recording 71 tackles and one pick. While the starting experience helps McCray’s value, the Cowboys view him as a special teamer and third safety. 18 of McCray’s tackles came on special teams.

The move saves his roster spot. McCray started 10 games a season ago, but will back up Barry Church at free safety.

A Cowboy from 2010-13, McCray spent 2014 with the Bears. He’ll try to make the team as a deep reserve and special teamer. McCray played just 170 snaps on defense for Chicago last season.

Rookie Brock Vereen was relegated to the second team after working with the first unit throughout the entire offseason program. McCray has primarily been a special teamer in his four-year career, but did start 10 games for the Cowboys in 2012. This change is likely temporary. Vereen is simply a superior player, and it would be surprising if he does not start opposite Ryan Mundy Week 1. McCray will push Chris Conte (shoulder) and Adrian Wilson for the No. 3 safety job.

A special teamer, McCray has spent his entire four-year career with the Cowboys. He managed just nine snaps for Dallas’ dreadful defense last season.