Cowboys sign Paulescu to replace McBriar

Oct 15, 2008 - 1:08 AM IRVING, Texas (Ticker) -- The Dallas Cowboys wasted no time replacing injured punter Mat McBriar, signing Sam Paulescu on Tuesday, according to the team's web site.

Paulescu, who spent time with the Cowboys during training camp last year, worked out for the team on Tuesday and was immediately inked. McBriar, a one-time Pro Bowler who is fourth in the league with a 49.0 average this season, was placed on injured reserve, ending his season.

The 29-year-old Australian broke his right foot on the last play of Sunday's 30-24 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, as his punt was blocked and returned for a game-winning touchdown. He was carted off the field and originally diagnosed with a right foot contusion, but further tests revealed the fracture.

Paulescu has one game of NFL experience, as he was signed by the Denver Broncos for their 2007 finale against the Minnesota Vikings. He punted five times for 221 yards - an average of 44.2 yards. He remained with the Broncos throughout training camp this year, but was waived on August 30.