The Dallas Cowboys began their preparations for Week 3 with caution, as they tread through a slew of injuries that could impact their upcoming showdown with the Baltimore Ravens.
One of the more significant concerns is wide receiver CeeDee Lamb's missed practice due to an ankle injury. Similarly, cornerback Trevon Diggs was also absent, sidelined with a foot injury. Despite their absence from the field, both Lamb and Diggs were spotted walking around the locker room without any apparent discomfort, which offered a glimmer of hope to Cowboys fans.
Head coach Mike McCarthy provided some insights into their status, saying, "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."
Injury Concerns Pile Up
Adding to the growing list of concerns, DaRon Bland was present at practice but was seen working off to the side with the team's director of rehab, Britt Brown. Bland missed Week 2 against the New Orleans Saints after undergoing a procedure for a stress fracture in his foot.
The Cowboys' defensive lineup is under scrutiny, especially after conceding touchdowns on each of the Saints' first six drives in Week 2. The absence of key players is a looming concern as Jake Ferguson also remains a limited participant due to a bone bruise and MCL sprain, which he incurred during the second half of the Cowboys' Week 1 win against the Browns. Ferguson subsequently missed the Week 2 game against the Saints.
McCarthy commented on Ferguson's role and potential return, "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."
Keepsakes from the Coach
McCarthy also emphasized the importance of gauging players' readiness post-practice. Thursday's padded practice is expected to provide a more precise assessment of Lamb and Diggs' ability to play.
Meanwhile, rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith had his practice cut short due to a back injury, adding another layer of complexity to the Cowboys' preparation. Smith's condition will be closely monitored as the staff assesses his availability for the game against the Ravens.
Leadership and Adaptability
Quarterback Dak Prescott highlighted the adaptability and efforts of the team's younger players in the absence of veterans like Ferguson. "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," Prescott remarked.
As the Cowboys continue to navigate these injury tribulations, the team’s capacity to adapt and rely on both experienced and budding talent will be crucial. With several key players on the mend, the outcome of the upcoming practices could significantly shape the Cowboys' strategy and performance in Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens.