LANDOVER, Md. – Jeff Heath was listed as questionable heading into Monday's game against the Redskins, but he is active and ready to play for Monday Night Football.
The Cowboys released their seven inactive players on Monday evening and gave Heath the go-ahead to play against Washington. Tony Romo headlines the list, followed by Brice Butler, Deji Olatoye, Mark Nzecoha, Ronald Leary, Chaz Green and Geoff Swaim.
None of the seven names are particularly surprising. The Cowboys opted to leave Romo on the active roster while they battle for NFC East positioning, but he was ruled out Saturday afternoon as he recovers from a broken clavicle.
If Romo returns to action at all, it likely wouldn't be until the postseason – assuming the Cowboys get that far. With a win against Washington, Dallas would be one game out of first place in the division with four games to play.
Olatoye had a chance of playing against the Redskins because of Heath's injury, but he will be inactive with the veteran safety suiting up to play.
Butler will once again be inactive despite recovering from a hamstring strain, as the Cowboys have opted to go with Devin Street and Lucky Whitehead behind the trio of Dez Bryant, Terrance Williams and Cole Beasley at receiver. Nzeocha's services also aren't needed, as the Cowboys' full contingent of veteran linebackers will be available this week.
There had been some consideration that Leary might re-enter the lineup this week after La'el Collins struggled in the Thanksgiving loss to Carolina. The coaching staff gave Leary some practice reps during the week leading up to Monday night, but they ultimately opted to stick with the rookie at left guard.
This is Green's first week on the active roster, but it was always a long shot that he'd play, given that the Cowboys have Tyron Smith, Doug Free and Charles Brown all healthy and playing.
Swaim brings up the rear as a mainstay on the inactives list this season.
On the opposite sideline, the Redskins have designated quarterback Robert Griffin III, wide receiver Andre Roberts, cornerback Deshazor Everett, linebacker Perry Riley Jr., defensive end Frank Kearse, guard Arie Kouandjio and tight end Derek Carrier as inactive.
