The Dallas Cowboys have initiated Week 3 preparations with measured caution as they navigate a cluster of injuries impacting their roster ahead of the upcoming clash with the Baltimore Ravens. Key players, including wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and cornerback Trevon Diggs, were notably absent from practice due to nagging injuries. Lamb has been sidelined by an ankle issue, while Diggs is dealing with a foot injury. However, both players were observed moving around the locker room without any visible discomfort.
Amidst this uncertainty, head coach Mike McCarthy provided some insights, suggesting that a more definitive evaluation of their conditions would take place following Thursday’s padded practice: "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 setbacks aren't limited to Lamb and Diggs. DaRon Bland, who missed the Week 2 matchup against the New Orleans Saints due to a foot procedure, has returned to practice, albeit in a limited capacity. He was seen working individually with the team's director of rehabilitation, Britt Brown. Bland’s absence in Week 2 was felt acutely, as the Cowboys' defense struggled notably, conceding touchdowns on the Saints' first six drives.
The challenges faced by the Cowboys' defense underscore the significance of each player's role on the team. During the same Week 2 game, Jake Ferguson, a pivotal player who missed the clash due to a bone bruise and MCL sprain suffered in Week 1, was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice. Ferguson’s absence was keenly felt, especially given his performance against the Browns, which had set high expectations.
Quarterback Dak Prescott highlighted the impact of Ferguson’s absence and praised the efforts of the other tight ends: "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 a similar sentiment regarding Ferguson’s integral role within 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."
Adding to the Cowboys' concerns, rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith had to exit Wednesday’s practice prematurely due to a back injury. The exact nature and severity of Smith's condition remain unclear, but the team will be closely monitoring his status moving forward.
Given these injury woes, the Cowboys are navigating a precarious landscape as they prepare for their next battle against the Ravens. McCarthy's strategic approach and the performance of the remaining healthy players will be crucial in mitigating the impact of these absences. The players' resilience and adaptability during practice will be tested, and the coaching staff's ability to make timely adjustments will be pivotal to their success.
As the week progresses, the Cowboys will need to stay vigilant and adaptable, ensuring that they keep the momentum going despite the setbacks. With key players like Lamb, Diggs, and Ferguson working their way back to full health, and Bland eager to prove himself after surgery, the Cowboys aim to solidify their defense and refine their strategies. All eyes will be on Thursday’s padded practice, which will provide a clearer picture of the team's readiness and player conditions.