Claiborne out with torn patellar tendon

Cornerback Morris Claiborne has gone from being out of the starting lineup to inevitably off the active roster.

Via Drew Davison of the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram, COO Stephen Jones tells 105.3 The Fan in Dallas/Ft. Worth that Claiborne suffered a ruptured patellar tendon on Sunday night against the Saints.  Claiborne most likely is done for the year.

Owner/G.M. Jerry Jones had said it appeared Claiborne suffered a torn ACL.  Either injury requires surgery and extensive rehab.

Claiborne, the sixth overall pick in the 2012 draft, will be eligible for a second contract after the season.  More importantly, the Cowboys will have to decide whether to pick up the fifth-year option by May 3, 2015.  Since he was a top-10 pick, Claiborne will be entitled to the 2015 transition tender for cornerbacks as his 2016 salary, guaranteed for injury only.

Don’t be surprised if the Cowboys decide not to pick up the option, choosing instead to let Claiborne enter a contract year next season.