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Cowboys defensive end Anthony Spencer was supposed to be the pass-rushing bookend to DeMarcus Ware in Monte Kiiffin's 4-3 defense. The Cowboys couldn't reach a long-term deal with Spencer in the offseason so they gave him the franchise tag. Unfortunately, Spencer hurt his knee very early in training camp and wasn't able to play except for 34 snaps against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2. Now, it's possible he might not play at all for the rest of the 2013 season.
Jerry Jones said on his radio program today that Spencer needs microfracture surgery on his knee and is "likely done" for the season. He'll definitely be missing additional time at a minimum. Spencer had recently said he didn't think he would need the surgery but the doctors say loose cartilage is still a problem and he was still having bone on bone contact.
The only positive news on this for the Cowboys has been the play of Spencer's replacement George Selvie. He was signed early in training camp and has been a solid contributor along the defensive line. What was supposed to be a temporary assignment now looks like it will be a season-long position as starting defensive end.