As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for Week 3, their preparations have begun under a cloud of caution due to a raft of injuries impacting key players. With a critical matchup against the Baltimore Ravens looming, the health status of several Cowboys stars remains a focal point.
Key Injuries on the Offensive Front
Among the most notable absentees from practice was wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, sidelined by an ankle injury. Also missing from the fray was cornerback Trevon Diggs, who is nursing a foot injury. Despite their absences, both players were seen moving around the locker room without any noticeable signs of discomfort, suggesting their conditions might not be too severe.
Head Coach Mike McCarthy provided an update but stopped short of offering any definitive timelines for their return. "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," McCarthy said, emphasizing the need for a cautious approach. A more precise assessment is expected after Thursday’s padded practice.
Defensive Concerns and DaRon Bland's Progress
The Cowboys' defense, which struggled mightily in Week 2 by allowing touchdowns on the New Orleans Saints' first six drives, continues to grapple with its own set of injury woes. Cornerback DaRon Bland, who missed the game against the Saints following a procedure for a stress fracture in his foot, was seen working on the sidelines with the team's director of rehab, Britt Brown. Bland's progress is crucial for a defense looking to rebound after a dismal performance.
The Return of Jake Ferguson
On the offensive side, tight end Jake Ferguson was a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice. Ferguson, who suffered a bone bruise and MCL sprain during the Cowboys’ Week 1 victory over the Browns, missed the subsequent game against the Saints. His potential return would be a significant boost to the Cowboys' offense, given his role both on and off the field.
Quarterback Dak Prescott weighed in on Ferguson's impact, saying, "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."
Coach McCarthy echoed Prescott's sentiments, underscoring Ferguson's importance to the team. "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," McCarthy remarked.
New Concerns for Mazi Smith
Adding to the Cowboys' injury concerns, rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith had to leave practice early on Wednesday due to a back injury. The extent of Smith's condition remains unclear, and his participation in upcoming games is now uncertain, putting further strain on a beleaguered Cowboys defense.
As the Dallas Cowboys continue their preparations for their upcoming clash with the Ravens, the team’s ability to manage these injuries will be pivotal. With key players like Lamb, Diggs, Bland, Ferguson, and Smith all facing health challenges, the Cowboys’ depth and resilience will be put to the test in the days ahead.