Rob Jones Faces Extended Recovery, Opening Path for Rookie Tyler Booker

During the first padded practice of training camp, Dallas Cowboys guard Rob Jones sustained a broken bone in his neck, sidelining him for an estimated two to three months, as reported on the team's official website.

Jones, who recently signed a one-year deal to bolster the Cowboys' offensive line depth, was working with the starting unit prior to his injury on Sunday in California. He noted that the injury occurred early in practice, yet he managed to complete the session.

This setback for Jones likely paves the way for rookie first-round draft pick Tyler Booker to step into a starting role. While there was already a strong possibility that Booker would start, Jones had been making a notable impression on the coaching staff.

At 26 years old, Jones previously spent four seasons with the Miami Dolphins after entering the league as an undrafted free agent. He started all 17 games last season and has accumulated 30 career starts.

The Cowboys have several alternatives at guard, all of whom possess starting experience. Saahdiq Charles joined the team this offseason after four years with Washington, while Brock Hoffman filled in as an injury replacement last season for seven-time All-Pro Zack Martin, who has since retired.