With the Cowboys set to open practice on Sunday, ESPN Dallas takes a look at players fighting to make the 53-man roster and how they may potentially fit on the roster in 2013.
Name: Ernie Sims
Position: Linebacker
Contract status: Signed through 2013
Why he should make it: Sims did a nice job after signing with the team following an injury to Sean Lee. In 10 games last year, including six starts, Sims finished with 42 tackles, a sack, two quarterback pressures and three pass deflections. That came in a new scheme. With the Cowboys moving to the 4-3, Sims is back in the right scheme. He can play the Will or Mike in this scheme, which is a plus. His experience is also a bonus with a backup group that does not have any real game experience in this scheme at this level.
Why he should not make it: The Cowboys drafted DeVonte Holloman and guaranteed undrafted rookie Brandon Magee $70,000. Sims, who is entering his eighth season, does not have any guaranteed money. He will have to show he is willing to be a special-teams mainstay. He does not turn 29 until December and he still moves well enough to make plays, but the Cowboys have harped on going younger across the roster. Sims might get caught up in the numbers, especially if the team only keeps six linebackers.
Main competition: Brandon Magee, Tank Reed, Caleb McSurdy
Chance to make roster: 45 percent
