IRVING, Texas – Joseph Randle has yet to play a snap for the Cowboys this year. But that very well could change Sunday.
The rookie tailback from Oklahoma State said he is "suiting up" this week against the Chargers. And since he's been inactive the last two games, it's likely the Cowboys will have some kind of plan to use him on offense and perhaps special teams.
Randle was active for the opener against the Giants when Lance Dunbar was out with a foot injury. Dunbar returned for the next game, making Randle inactive the last two weeks. But that will change Sunday.
"I think I'm ready to play. I'm ready to go," said Randle, who was also asked if the coaching staff shares those feelings. "I hope they do. That's what it's all about – getting other people to believe what you believe yourself. I believe I'm ready to go and I think they're starting to feel a little more that way, too."
While Randle is hopeful to get a few carries this week, he knows playing on special teams is another way to get on the field.
"I'm getting more into the special teams a little more," said Randle, who last covered kicks at Oklahoma State. "Freshman year I was on special teams a lot. I contributed a lot. It's not that new to me. "
Overall, Randle said he's eager to get these first snaps, but wouldn't say the first three games have been frustrating or consider it a setback to his career.
"I don't think it's frustrating. I'm in this program and I believe in the program 100 percent," said Randle. "Whatever they feel is best for the team, I'm with it."
If Randle is active as he suggests, the Cowboys could keep four backs active, along with DeMarco Murray, Dunbar and Phillip Tanner.
Last week, Murray ripped off a 175-yard game against the Rams. This year, Murray has 58 of the 68 carries from the running backs. Dunbar has six attempts for 31 yards while Tanner has four for just one yard. [embedded_ad]
In the preseason, Randle led the Cowboys in rushing attempts (55) and rushing yards (215) and scored one touchdown. He also caught four passes for 31 yards and returned five kickoffs for 113 yards (22.6 yard average). Randle is the only player in the 2013 draft class yet to play in a game for the Cowboys.
