Jerry Jones says Cowboys better on defense even without Sean Lee because they can't get worse

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, left, stands on the sidelines with his son Jerry Jones, Jr. during NFL football minicamp at the team's stadium Thursday, June 19, 2014, in Arlington, Texas. Jones says he expects the defense to be better even without Sean Lee, because there's no way that unit could be any worse than it was in 2013. He also says it's too early to think about Josh Brent's return to football once he is released in an intoxication manslaughter case. (AP Photo/LM Otero) (The Associated Press)

In this photo taken on Tuesday, June 17, 2014, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones smiles as he speaks with reporters during NFL football minicamp the team's stadium Thursday, June 19, 2014, in Arlington, Texas. Jerry Jones says he expects the defense to be better even without Sean Lee, because there's no way that unit could be any worse than it was in 2013. He also says it's too early to think about Josh Brent's return to football once he is released in an intoxication manslaughter case. (AP Photo/LM Otero) (The Associated Press)

IRVING, Texas – Jerry Jones figures the Dallas Cowboys will be better on defense even without linebacker Sean Lee.

The owner and general manager's reasoning won't be much comfort to fans: He says they can't get worse than they were a year ago.

Dallas had the worst defense statistically in franchise history in 2013, including the first two 600-yard games the Cowboys have ever allowed.

The most notable thing the Cowboys have done since the season ended is release franchise sacks leader DeMarcus Ware. Lee went down with a torn ligament in his left knee in the first offseason practice.

Still, Jones said during minicamp this week the defense is better "on paper" than the injury-ravaged unit that finished last season.

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