The Sports Xchange

If Ray Rice gets a second chance in the NFL this season, it will not be with the Dallas Cowboys.

According to Charean Williams of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Rice is not being considered by the Cowboys to fill the roster spot and depth chart void created Tuesday when Ryan Williams was released following yet another knee procedure.

The Cowboys signed former Stephen F. Austin running back Gus Johnson to fill the roster spot.

The Cowboys have been in contact with representatives for free agent Chris Johnson, who is recovered from a gunshot wound, but are expected to evaluate their current stable of backs before making any additional moves.

Still, Johnson could find his way onto a depth chart that includes Darren McFadden and Joseph Randle before the start of the regular season. A key question in training camp for the Cowboys is how to replace NFL Offensive Player of the Year DeMarco Murray, who joined the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency.

Owner Jerry Jones said in May he thinks the Cowboys’ running game can be even better without Murray, who had 518 total touches last season including the playoffs.

McFadden is the presumed starter in 2015 but has only played 16 games in a regular season once (2014) and was sidelined most of the offseason with a balky hamstring.

In May, the Cowboys said they were considering Johnson. Executive vice president Stephen Jones said at that time Johnson was “on the short list” of veteran backs they would consider. However, Jones said the position is not a priority.

That could change if injuries or ineffectiveness pushes Garrett and his coaching staff to look in another direction.