IRVING, Texas -- Gerald Sensabaugh has missed only one game since joining the Dallas Cowboys in 2009, but a right calf strain might keep the starting free safety on the sideline for a couple of weeks, according to sources.
Sensabaugh expressed hope after Sunday's 27-7 loss to Seattle that he would be able to play this week against Tampa Bay, but that was before an MRI was performed on Monday. Sensabaugh left the Seahawks' game with 9:34 to play after a 1-yard run by Marshawn Lynch and said his calf "popped a little bit." He had ice on his calf for the remainder of the game and was in a protective boot in the locker room.
Sensabaugh's running mate, Barry Church, suffered a quadriceps bruise while covering a first-half kickoff and was unable to continue after returning for a few plays. He said after the game he would be able to go against Tampa Bay as well and his chance to play appears a bit better.
If Sensabaugh and Church are out, the Cowboys would start Danny McCray and Mana Silva at safety against the Buccaneers. Neither has started a game in their careers.
Sensabaugh's absence could also create a depth void as well. The Cowboys are carrying only four safeties on the 53-man roster and rookie Matt Johnson has been limited essentially since June with a hamstring injury and has not practiced since the regular season began.
Cornerback Mario Butler took some work during training camp and preseason at safety.
