The Dallas Cowboys began their preparations for Week 3 with a keen focus on injury management. As they gear up for a significant matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, the team is navigating a series of health concerns that could impact their performance.
Key Players Sideline
Foremost among the worries is wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, who missed practice due to an ankle injury. Additionally, cornerback Trevon Diggs was absent because of a foot injury. Despite their absences, both were observed walking around the locker room without any apparent discomfort.
Head Coach Mike McCarthy remains cautiously optimistic but acknowledges that further assessments are necessary. "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 stated, aiming for a clearer understanding of their conditions after Thursday’s padded practice.
Defense and Recovery
Meanwhile, cornerback DaRon Bland was present but working off to the side with the team's director of rehab, Britt Brown. Bland, who missed Week 2 following a procedure for a stress fracture in his foot, participated in limited activities. His absence was felt significantly in the previous game, where the Cowboys' defense struggled, allowing the Saints to score touchdowns on their first six drives.
The defensive unit's complications extend beyond Bland. Rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith was forced to leave Wednesday's practice early due to a back injury. The status of these defensive players will be crucial as the Cowboys face an offensive powerhouse in the Ravens.
Offensive Concerns
On the offensive side, tight end Jake Ferguson was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, nursing a bone bruise and MCL sprain that sidelined him in Week 2. Ferguson's injuries were sustained in the second half of the Cowboys' Week 1 victory against the Browns, and his absence has been palpable.
Quarterback Dak Prescott emphasized Ferguson's importance to the team, 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."
Echoing Prescott's sentiment, McCarthy added, "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."
The Cowboys find themselves at a critical juncture early in the season. Injury management over the next few days will play a pivotal role in determining their readiness for the upcoming contest against the Ravens. With several key players uncertain, the coaching staff must tread carefully between pushing for readiness and ensuring long-term health.
The Dallas Cowboys' resilience and ability to adapt will be put to the test as they navigate this wave of injuries. Their performance in Week 3 will depend heavily on the health and recovery of players like Lamb, Diggs, Bland, Smith, and Ferguson. The fans and coaching staff alike are keenly awaiting updates, knowing that a fully fit squad will vastly improve their chances of securing a vital win.