Cowboys Kick Off Week 3 with Injury Concerns
The Dallas Cowboys started their preparations for Week 3 on a cautious note, managing a slew of injuries ahead of their showdown with the Baltimore Ravens. As the team hit the practice field on Wednesday, all eyes were on the health statuses of key players.
Key Players Sidelined
Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb missed practice due to an ankle injury, and cornerback Trevon Diggs was also absent with a foot injury. However, the sight of both players walking around the locker room without apparent discomfort provided some hope for the Cowboys. Coach Mike McCarthy noted that a clearer assessment of their condition would come after Thursday’s padded practice.
Additionally, DaRon Bland, who missed Week 2 against the New Orleans Saints after undergoing a procedure for a stress fracture in his foot, was present at practice albeit working off to the side with the team's director of rehab, Britt Brown. Despite not participating, Bland's presence was a positive sign for the Cowboys, who suffered in his absence.
Defensive Struggles
Without Bland in Week 2, the Cowboys' defense struggled significantly, conceding touchdowns on each of the Saints' first six drives. Bland’s return to any level of practice activity lights a beacon of hope for a defense that will face a daunting challenge against Baltimore. The Ravens’ roster features dangerous playmakers such as Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and Roquan Smith.
Backfield Woes
The injury bug bit the Cowboys’ backfield as well. Jake Ferguson, who missed the Week 2 game against the Saints due to a bone bruise and MCL sprain suffered in the second half of the Cowboys’ Week 1 win against the Browns, was a limited participant on Wednesday. Coach Mike McCarthy allowed a glimpse into the cautious approach the team is taking with Ferguson: "He's going to start off in the pre-practice and then we'll evaluate from there. Hopefully, he can get through the whole practice and see how it goes. This is the first time giving it a chance."
Quarterback Dak Prescott expressed the significance of Ferguson’s presence to the team chemistry and morale during his media availability: "Everywhere. I guess you can say that those young tight ends [Schoonmaker and undrafted rookie Brevyn Spann-Ford] did a good job. Simply, they did a good job. As I've said throughout the week, Jake's more than just a tight end on Sunday. He's an aggressor. He brings a physical nature to this group. He's got a mentality that other guys feed off of, that's very contagious, but those other guys did play well. They did their job and stepped up. They made some plays, but [the game] just got away from us."
Hopeful Updates
McCarthy also underscored Ferguson's integral role in the locker room and his influence on the field: "Jake's a big part of the heart and soul of that locker room. No question about it. I was told he had a good workout today. That's good news. But we'll see how he comes in tomorrow and so forth. I'm hopeful he can play."
Meanwhile, rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith had to leave practice early on Wednesday with a back injury, adding to the Cowboys' list of concerns. The team will be closely monitoring his condition to ascertain his availability for Sunday’s game.
As the Cowboys continue their preparations, the team’s resilience and depth will be put to the test. Injuries to key players pose a significant challenge, yet they also present opportunities for backups to step up. With the Ravens bringing top-tier talent to Texas, the Cowboys must navigate these health hurdles to stay competitive. Thursday’s padded practice will be crucial in determining just how ready Dallas is for their Week 3 matchup.