IRVING, Texas – Center Ryan Cook missed his third straight practice with a knee injury, leaving the Cowboys to likely have to make two moves on the offensive line to compensate.

Mackenzy Bernadeau would make his first career start at center against Cleveland and veteran Derrick Dockery would take over at right guard.

“I always embrace the challenge,” Bernadeau said. “I’m excited even though I haven’t played in a game I’ve done it in the preseason and it’s something I’m confident with. It’s new, so it’s exciting.”

Bernadeau took the bulk of the first-team snaps at center during the week with Kevin Kowalski mixing in some. The Cowboys would need to add Kowalski to the 53-man roster by 3 p.m. Saturday for him to make his season debut after opening the year on the physically unable to perform list.

Dockery started two games for the Cowboys last season and was signed during training camp over the summer because of injuries.

“That’s what practice is for,” said Bernadeau when asked about continuity on the line. “I thought w had good fits between him and I for the first time being in there together. It went well.”
Cook is holding out hope he can play against the Browns even though he did not practice. A hamstring injury prevented him from practicing leading up to the Carolina game but he was active a Phil Costa’s backup and took over in the second quarter when Costa hurt his ankle.

“I think everybody needs to practice,” Cook said. “It helps you build your craft and what you do. Is it a necessity? I think it is, but can certain individuals do it without practicing? Yeah.”