The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for their Week 3 clash against the Baltimore Ravens with a mix of anticipation and caution, as a number of key players are nursing injuries.
Notable Absences and Uncertainties
Starting wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and cornerback Trevon Diggs were notable absentees during practice, sidelined with ankle and foot injuries, respectively. Despite their absence from practice, both were spotted in the locker room without any visible signs of discomfort. Coach Mike McCarthy indicated that a clearer assessment of their condition would be available 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," McCarthy relayed, hinting at cautious optimism about their return.
Meanwhile, DaRon Bland participated in practice, though he was working individually with Britt Brown, the team's director of rehab. Bland missed Week 2's game against the New Orleans Saints due to a stress fracture in his foot. His presence indicates a significant step towards recovery, though his full return to the lineup remains uncertain.
Defensive Struggles and Hopes of Reinforcement
The Cowboys' defense showed vulnerabilities in their Week 2 game against the Saints, conceding touchdowns on each of the first six drives. The absence of players like Bland and Diggs was keenly felt, highlighting the importance of their quick recovery for the upcoming game. The defensive unit's capacity to contain the Ravens' offense will likely hinge on the availability of these key players.
Adding to the defensive woes, rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith had to leave Wednesday's practice early due to a back injury. The extent of Smith's injury remains to be seen, and his potential absence could compound the challenges faced by the Cowboys' defense.
Offensive Challenges and Promising Performances
On the offensive side, Jake Ferguson’s limited participation in practice on Wednesday was a positive sign. Ferguson missed the Week 2 game against the Saints due to a bone bruise and MCL sprain, injuries he sustained in the second half of their Week 1 win against the Browns. His potential return could provide a significant boost to the offense.
Quarterback Dak Prescott praised the effort of the backup tight ends, Luke Schoonmaker and undrafted rookie Brevyn Spann-Ford, who stepped up during Ferguson's absence. "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 noted, underscoring the multifaceted role Ferguson plays within the team.
Coach McCarthy also emphasized Ferguson's value, both on and off the field: "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."
Looking Forward
As the Cowboys prepare for their upcoming game against the Ravens, the health of key players remains a primary concern. The team will rely heavily on the medical staff's assessments and the physical responses of players like Lamb, Diggs, and Ferguson over the next couple of days. With essential contributors potentially returning, the Cowboys aim to strengthen both their offensive and defensive play.
In the backdrop of these injury concerns, the Dallas Cowboys are maintaining a hopeful stance, ready to adapt and overcome their adversities as they eye a rebound in Week 3. The coming days will be crucial in determining the availability of these pivotal players and consequently, the team's overall preparedness against the Ravens.