IRVING, Texas – Defensive end DeMarcus Ware is still not 100 percent after undergoing shoulder surgery in the offseason. He also knows this isn't the time to push any type of return.
But come training camp, Ware vows to be ready.
"I haven't been cleared yet from the physicians," Ware said. "I think I'd be good enough to play (in a game), but I've got a few months before training camp and I'll be ready then."
The Cowboys report to Oxnard, Calif. on July 19 and will have five preseason games, including the Hall of Fame game in Canton, Ohio against Miami on Aug. 4. While he might be limited somewhat at camp, Ware said he plans on being close to 100 percent.
Ware said Thursday he will not participate in any of the minicamp practices next week at Valley Ranch, the final Cowboys' workouts before training camp.
"I'm just going along with what the trainers are saying," Ware said. "We're not pushing anything right now."
Last year, Ware played through injuries to his shoulder, elbow, hamstring and neck.
While he's not getting any practice work, Ware said he's not concerned about missing OTA sessions as the defense shifts to a 4-3 scheme, something he played in college at Troy.
"When you're in the 3-4, there's a lot of terminology … and dropping (into coverage)," Ware said. "You have to learn the rush coverages. But playing defensive end, there's only one thing I need to do – pass rush and figure out how offenses will attack it. Half of the learning curve is gone and now it's more technique work than anything."
Ware still had 11.5 sacks to lead the team last year, but it was a big drop-off from the 19.5 he accumulated in 2011 and his 15.5 in 2010.
Ware enters the 2013 season just three sacks away from tying Harvey Martin (114.0) on the Cowboys' all-time list.
