FRISCO, Texas - The Cowboys have made a change in the middle of their defensive line, adding defensive tackle Carlos Watkins off the Commanders' practice squad.
Watkins, who played for the Cowboys in 27 games from 2021-22, replaces Jordan Phillips, who was moved to IR with a wrist injury.
Phillips would be eligible to return after four games (Oct. 27 in San Francisco) if he's cleared to play. The Cowboys have not determined how serious the injury is to Phillips, who was acquired by trade back in August during the middle of training camp.
The addition of Watkins brings a familiar face to the defense, although he played in Dan Quinn's defensive system. Watkins left for Arizona in 2023 in free agency and spent one season with the Cardinals before rejoining Quinn in Washington. He was placed on their practice squad but did play last week against the Giants.
Overall, Watkins has played seven years, including the first four in Houston.
With the Cowboys, Watkins had his best year of his career in 2021, where he had a personal-best 32 tackles, including 17 solo. He also recorded his only career interception and touchdown with a pick-six against the Saints.
He left for the Cardinals in 2023 but a biceps injury required season-ending surgery, cutting his season to just two games played.
