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The Dallas Cowboys have one of the NFL’s more impressive rookie classes this season based on draft evaluations. While the Cowboys were perceived to get good value on most of their draft picks, they also touted one of the better undrafted free agents in linebacker Francis Bernard. From the moment that training camp started we kept hearing about how great Bernard was looking, Leighton Vander Esch just about called Bernard his own pet cat.
Saturday is here which means that rosters across the league must be trimmed to the league-mandated limit of 53. Unfortunately not every promising player can make it, a case as evidenced with Francis Bernard.
The Dallas Cowboys are waiving undrafted free agent linebacker Francis Bernard
There were no preseason games this year which meant a lack of opportunities for a lot of players. It is very possible that Francis Bernard could have shown something there that would have netted him a spot on the 53-man roster, but unfortunately that is not the case. The Dallas Morning News reported that he is being waived.
Surprise: Cowboys waived rookie LB Francis Bernard, source said. Been belief he'd done enough to make 53-man roster; picked up playbook quickly, produced standout moments in camp. Likely came down to special teams. Dallas wants on practice squad but has to clear waivers first.
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) September 5, 2020
The Cowboys have earned a lot of trust with how they are handling and building the roster, but this is certainly a questionable decision, especially when paired with recent news. It was reported on Friday by the DMN that veteran linebacker Sean Lee is expected to begin the season on injured reserve. While the rules here are far different than in years past as a result of Covid-19, the Cowboys are clearly going to be down at least one notable linebacker early. Bernard could have provided depth.
Just after news of Bernard being waived it was also reported that the Cowboys are moving on from cornerback Chris Westry and Ron’Dell Carter. You can track all roster cuts with our official tracker right here.