The Dallas Cowboys have started their preparations for Week 3 with cautious optimism, as they manage a series of injuries ahead of their critical matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.
Key Player Absences
Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was notably absent from practice, nursing an ankle injury. His absence was matched by that of cornerback Trevon Diggs, who was dealing with a foot injury. However, fans should take some solace as both players were seen moving around the locker room without apparent discomfort. Coach Mike McCarthy emphasized that a clearer picture of their status would be available following Thursday’s padded practice.
Another key player, DaRon Bland, was also on limited duty at practice. Bland, who missed Week 2 against the New Orleans Saints due to a procedure for a stress fracture in his foot, was seen working on the sidelines with the team's director of rehab, Britt Brown. His situation remains closely monitored as the team looks to strengthen its defensive lineup. The Cowboys’ defense struggled significantly in Week 2, conceding touchdowns on each of the Saints' first six drives.
Impact on Tight End Position
Jake Ferguson, yet another vital cog in the Cowboys' roster, was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice. Ferguson missed the Week 2 game due to a bone bruise and MCL sprain he sustained in the second half of the Week 1 win against the Cleveland Browns. Coach Mike McCarthy expressed cautious optimism about Ferguson's 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."
Quarterback Dak Prescott also weighed in on the impact of Ferguson’s absence, mentioning that young tight ends Luke Schoonmaker and undrafted rookie Brevyn Spann-Ford stepped up under challenging circumstances.
"Everywhere. I guess you can say that those young tight ends 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," said Prescott.
Defensive Changes
In additional injury news, rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith had to leave Wednesday's practice early due to a back injury. As the team juggles these significant injuries, Coach McCarthy highlighted the importance of Ferguson to the team’s morale and performance:
"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."
As the Cowboys navigate through these challenges, their depth will be thoroughly tested. The Week 3 showdown against the Baltimore Ravens looms large, and getting key players back on the field could be crucial in flipping the script after a lackluster defensive showing against the Saints. With careful management and a touch of luck, the Cowboys hope to return to winning ways in what promises to be a pivotal week in their season.