Injured Cowboys linebacker Rolando McClain won’t play against Jets

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Rolando McClain has been ruled out for Saturday night’s game against the New York Jets.

McClain didn’t pass concussion protocol, leaving the Cowboys without their starting middle linebacker.

Cornerback Morris Claiborne (hamstring) is also unlikely to play, being listed as doubtful on the team’s injury report. Claiborne missed two games with a hamstring injury last month.

The McClain news, though, comes as somewhat of a surprise after coach Jason Garrett said Thursday he was “optimistic” that McClain could play.

McClain was kicked in the head by teammate Jeff Heath in Sunday’s loss at Green Bay, leaving the field for a few plays. But McClain passed the initial concussion tests on the sidelines and returned to the field, but then underwent additional concussion tests after the game.

Second-year pro Anthony Hitchens is likely to replace McClain in the starting lineup.

If Claiborne isn’t able to go, as expected, starting safety Byron Jones would likely slide to corner to start in his place. Jones, who started at corner when Claiborne missed the two games last month with a hamstring injury, has said he feels comfortable playing either position.

The rest of the injured players are listed as probable: wide receiver Dez Bryant (foot), safety Jeff Heath (shoulder), defensive tackle David Irving (back), defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence (chest) and linebacker Kyle Wilber (shoulder).

Quarterback Tony Romo (collarbone) is listed as out, as he has yet to be placed on injured reserve with the Cowboys still mathematically alive for a postseason berth.

This story was originally published December 18, 2015 at 3:17 PM with the headline "Injured Cowboys linebacker Rolando McClain won’t play against Jets."