Cowboys rookie DT Maliek Collins sustains broken foot

IRVING, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys’ defensive line has suffered another setback.

Defensive tackle Maliek Collins, whom the Cowboys selected with the 67th overall pick, underwent surgery late last week after breaking his foot in organized team activities, coach Jason Garrett confirmed Wednesday. The former Nebraska defender is expected to miss 10 to 12 weeks.

“We have a lot of defensive linemen on our team right now so it will give some of the other younger guys, and really some of the veteran guys, a chance to get more snaps,” Garrett said. “Maliek was doing well for us. He was off to a good start. We do anticipate him being back healthy and ready to go.”

Collins will have missed six of nine offseason practices in addition to June’s three-day minicamp. Touted for his strong pass-rushing skills, Collins could return to the field during training camp.

“It does set you back,” Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli said. “If it had to happen at certain time, it’s better to happen now. He is a hard-nosed guy, a good attitude with him. He’s tough. He will bounce back fast.”

The Cowboys are expected to be shorthanded on the line early in the season because of four-game suspensions facing ends Randy Gregory and DeMarcus Lawrence for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.