The Dallas Cowboys have seen the last of Henry Melton this season.
The veteran defensive tackle was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday due to a bone bruise to his right knee. Melton suffered the injury during the Cowboys' Week 17 win over the Redskins. In a corresponding move, Dallas signed linebacker James Anderson.
Melton's loss represents a hit to the Cowboys' already feeble pass rush. Melton, 28, was second on the team with five sacks this season across 16 games (four starts). Pro Football Focus ranked Melton as their 15th best defensive tackle this season.
The IR move might also mark the end of Melton's brief Cowboys career. Melton signed a one-year deal with a series of three option years in March, and should hit free agency after the season. The Cowboys -- who have their hands tied financially with DeMarco Murray and Dez Bryant also free agents-to-be -- will likely be priced out if they attempt to retain Melton.
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