Dallas Cowboys Grapple with Injury-Induced Challenges

Injury Strikes During Steelers Game

The Dallas Cowboys, already struggling with the absence of Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence due to injuries, suffered another blow during their recent game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Marshawn Kneeland, the rookie defensive end who was stepping in to fill the gap, was taken out on the fourth defensive play.

The incident occurred when Kneeland was executing a takedown on quarterback Justin Fields. The noncontact knee injury that followed saw him being escorted to the blue medical tent and then to the locker room for further evaluation. His replacement was Tyrus Wheat, and Kneeland’s return to the field was ruled out.

The Role of Kneeland and Golston

In the wake of Parsons and Lawrence’s absence, the Cowboys had put their faith in Kneeland and Chauncey Golston. Kneeland had lived up to their expectations, earning credit for six tackles, a tackle for loss, and six quarterback pressures. Wheat, who had been inactive for two of the first four games, was brought back in, and Carl Lawson was called up from the practice squad for the third consecutive game.

Parsons and Lawrence: A Significant Loss

Parsons’ absence marks the first game he’s missed due to injury in his career. He’s currently nursing a high left ankle sprain sustained in the victory over the New York Giants, with a recovery period of two to four weeks. Lawrence, who suffered a Lisfranc injury in his right foot during the same game, was placed on injured reserve. His recovery time is projected to be four to eight weeks, although he’s been spared the need for surgery.

The Impact of Injuries on the Team

The Cowboys have been particularly hard hit by injuries in their defensive end. Early in the training camp, Sam Williams, who was expected to be their third pass rusher behind Parsons and Lawrence, bowed out with a season-ending torn anterior cruciate ligament. These injuries spell tough times ahead for the Dallas Cowboys as they grapple with the challenges of an ever-demanding NFL season.