Darren McFadden's quest to fend off rookie Ezekiel Elliott for a sizable role in the Dallas Cowboys' backfield has taken a hit.
McFadden injured his elbow in an accident at home and will be out a "couple months" after undergoing surgery Tuesday, coach Jason Garrett announced.
"I don't want to put too many timetables on it, but they said the surgery went well and the overarching theme was a couple of months,'' Garrett said, via The Dallas Morning News. "We'll see how he responds to everything.
"But we do anticipate him being back at some point in training camp and possibly being able to play in the opener."
Running backs coach Gary Brown told Brandon George of The Morning News that McFadden fell Memorial Day weekend on his elbow while trying to keep from dropping his cell phone. The running back practiced last week before undergoing surgery Tuesday.
The injury is a setback for the running back who hoped to earn a timeshare with Elliott.
After an injury-riddled start to his NFL career, McFadden appeared in 32 straight regular season games over the past two seasons. In his first year in Dallas last season, the 28-year-old earned the workhorse gig, galloping for 1,089 yards and three rushing touchdowns.
The Cowboys are deep at the position after signing Alfred Morris and using the No. 4 overall pick on Elliott. McFadden missing minicamp and the start of training camp will likely give Elliott more snaps as he acclimates to the NFL speed -- and a leg up in the competition.
Garrett also announced defense end Benson Mayowa will have a knee scope and miss minicamp. Mayowa should be ready for training camp.
