Jason Garrett: Cowboys still unsure how much they will use Ezekiel Elliott Sunday

We’ve almost made it. Jason Garrett held his final press conference of the week which means we are oh so close to the first game against the Giants. Let’s recap what coach had to say. (All answers are paraphrased and not actual quotes).

How did Zeke look at practice yesterday?

He looked good at practice, he did what we asked of him and he is making progress. We don’t have a feel for playing time yet, we’ll watch him today and then decide over the weekend.

Did the game last night prove you should play guys in preseason?

I didn’t see the game, so I don’t really know and it’s not my place to comment. We try to get our players ready, we believe in playing them in the preseason.

Do you have concerns about the players who have missed camp?

We try to get the team prepared given whatever circumstances, we believe in practice and playing games. We try to handle it, we try to become better with backup players filling in for those guys, or by getting more guys involved. We just prepare to be our best.

Will Sean Lee play special teams?

Sean’s a really good player for us, he’ll play LB and if called upon on special teams he’ll play. We’re not going to reveal our plans today, we’ll determine things over the weekend. Sean will do whatever he is asked to do, that’s just the kind of player he is.

Zack Martin practicing today?

We anticipate that Zack will practice today.

How do yo deal with the challenge of a new play-caller in Week 1?

It’s like that for all parts of team in Week 1, you just have to do everything you can to be on it. The first time doing something is always a challenge. A new season always bring new things. You don’t have as much feel for the opponent, either. We want to be clean in how we operate, communication is a big part.

Do you feel you have some core special teams guys?

We have some guys who have been around here and done it before and can be considered the core. They are able to help some of the new faces.

Can you talk about Alfred Morris’ preparation, sometimes he’s a starter, other times he’s helping on the scout team?

Just a pro, one of the best people we’ve had here. Embraced every opportunity, in some cases he’s not active, other times he gets the ball 20 times, he embraces all of that and is an example for other players.

Zack Martin says he’s one of the best zone runners he’s seen?

He is one of the best zone runners, but he is just a good runner overall. He can run zone, gap-man, outside, misdirection. He has patience and feel, good quickness, can get north-south or go east-west then north-south. He is very patient but when it’s time to go he will hit the hole.

How do you see Leighton Vander Esch after his performance last season?

We thought a lot of him when we drafted him. He was banged up early but played well once he got in there. He’s got instincts, a good run and pass defender, we’ve seen a lot more of him now, but we saw all that in college. Range is certainly one of his best traits, he’s fast long, physical and has speed.