NFL Notes: Cowboys, Panthers, Redskins, & Texans

Cowboys

• Todd Archer of ESPN believes the Cowboys must consider starting QB Tony Romo if fourth-round QB Dak Prescott continues to struggle like he did in Week 14’s loss to the Giants.
• Archer thinks the Cowboys will look towards the draft for a potential No. 2 wide receiver since they must allocate money towards re-signing G Zack Martin and defensive players.
• Archer could also see WR Terrance Williams signing a contract in the $5-$6 million range this offseason with the Cowboys or another team since the salary cap is set to increase.

Panthers

• Although LB Luke Kuechly has cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol, Panthers HC Ron Rivera intimated that Kuechly may not return this season, saying: “We have to balance our enthusiasm with what’s best for Luke and the team long term,” per Joe Person.

Redskins

• John Keim of ESPN writes that the Redskins must take a long look at DC Joe Barry this offseason to determine if he should remain with the team past this season.
• The Redskins ruled out LB Su’a Cravens (upper arm) from Week 15 and listed LB Will Compton (knee) as doubtful.
• Washington announced the following players are questionable this week: DE Chris Baker (ankle), LB Martrell Spaight (shoulder), LB Ryan Kerrigan (knee), S Will Blackmon (concussion/thumb), RB Mack Brown (concussion), TE Jordan Reed (shoulder), G Shawn Lauvao (groin), C Spencer Long (concussion), C John Sullivan (illness), and OT Ty Nskehe (ankle).

Texans

• Aaron Wilson reports that LB Whitney Mercilus will be held out of Week 15’s game due to a flare up in his injured back.