Morris Claiborne passes test, denies Rams

August, 26, 2012
8/26/12
12:25
AM CT
ARLINGTON, Texas – Rookie cornerback Morris Claiborne really got tested for the first time as a pro Saturday night.

He gave up a few catches, but Claiborne passed the tests with flying colors, especially in the red zone.

Rams quarterback Sam Bradford targeted Claiborne twice in the end zone on St. Louis’ final series of the first half. Claiborne had good coverage on both occasions. He crowded Austin Pettis on an incomplete back-shoulder fade in the front corner of the end zone and swatted away a ball intended for Steve Smith while running across the back of the end zone.

“He seems comfortable out there,” coach Jason Garrett said. “He seems like he feels more and more confident.”

This was probably the last playing time Claiborne will get this preseason, as is the case for all of the Cowboys’ starters. After missing all of offseason (wrist surgery) and a week of training camp plus the preseason opener (knee), he had acknowledged that he was still in the mode of thinking too much on the field.

Claiborne said he played looser Saturday night and felt like he made progress.

“I feel pretty good,” Claiborne said. “I’m going to keep working. These 10 days (before the season opener) I’m going to use to my advantage and try to get better and better.”

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