Cutting-Room Floor : Roper Released After Snoozing During Film

Linebacker John Roper discovered Monday that taking a nap during film sessions can be fatal to employment with the Dallas Cowboys.

Coach Jimmy Johnson cut the fifth-year linebacker from Texas A&M;, who was obtained from Chicago in a preseason trade.

Roper, who had drawn praise from Johnson for his effort in previous games, was put on the inactive list for Sunday’s 26-17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.

Johnson caught Roper asleep during a special teams meeting Friday. “John didn’t fit in,” Johnson said. “He’s a good football player and has the ability to make plays, but we expect certain things from our players. The chemistry on this team is very important.”

Roper, Markus Paul and Kelly Blackwell came to the Cowboys in exchange for Vinson Smith, Barry Minter and a late-round draft choice. “I guess Chicago got the best of the trade,” Johnson said. “Vinson Smith is starting and (Bear Coach) Dave Wannstedt is happy. We get a minus on this one.”

Last season, Johnson cut running back Curvin Richards for fumbling twice during a game.