IRVING, Texas -- For all those waiting, there could be a Christine Michaelsighting Sunday when the Dallas Cowboys take on the New Orleans Saints.

Picked up in a trade from the Seattle Seahawks on Sept. 6, Michael was inactive for the first three games. This week he is getting work for the first time with the regulars on offense. In the first three weeks he solely ran with the scout team.

At 5-foot-10, 221 pounds, Michael has a sturdier build than Joseph Randle,Darren McFadden and Lance Dunbar.

“They all got their own strengths I think,” offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said. “His is size. Very explosive back. I think he might be a guy that can be utilized when you’re going against some of those big boy boxes. His running style and his run training is real similar the run game system to what they had in Seattle. I think that’s going to help move along in our offense as well.”

In 14 games over two seasons with the Seahawks, Michael, a second-round pick in 2013, had 52 carries for 254 yards in limited action.

“Physically I feel like I’ve been ready,” Michael said. “There’s a lot of plays and I had to get my plays down. That’s come along pretty well, studying pretty much every day.”

Linehan said Michael knows the running game and has enough experience with the pass protections. Linehan said the coaches will go over the roster on Friday and could make a decision on the rotation by Saturday night.

The Cowboys have been reluctant to dress four tailbacks for a game, but Dunbar’s versatility in the passing game could allow them to activate Michael. Among the team’s five healthy receivers, rookie Lucky Whitehead has played the least.

“Some weeks it fits because you’re looking for something that can help you in a certain situation,” Linehan said. “That’s the part of getting creative with the roster.”