INDIANAPOLIS -- For years the prevailing thought was that as good as Jay Ratliff was as a 3-4 nose tackle he would be better playing in a 4-3.

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The Cowboys are about to find out.

"Moving to the 4-3 we believe will be good for Jay's career, and I know the club also feels that way," Ratliff's agent, Mark Slough said. "He's getting healthy. Monte Kiffin and Rod Marinelli have spent time with him and they're excited to see what he can do and work with him. The move to the 4-3 will be less wear and tear on his body and allow him to play more years in the league."

Slough would not discuss Ratliff's recent arrest for drunk driving. The Cowboys have expressed disappointment but will let the legal and NFL processes play out.

Last year was one to forget for Ratliff. He missed most of training camp with plantar fasciitis and suffered a high ankle sprain in his only preseason game that kept him out of the first four games of the season. Later he suffered a groin injury that eventually required hernia surgery.

He played in only six games and did not have a sack.

Even before his arrest Ratliff's future with the team had been speculated because of the salary cap. However, the Cowboys are not expected to make a move with him.

He is set to make $5 million in 2013 and is guaranteed roughly $1.3 million if he is on the roster March 12.