The Dallas Cowboys have cautiously begun their preparations for Week 3, dealing with a spate of injuries as they get ready for their matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Key players like wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and cornerback Trevon Diggs missed practice on Wednesday, casting a shadow over the team's preparations.
Both Lamb and Diggs were sidelined due to ankle and foot injuries, respectively. There is a silver lining, however, as they were seen walking around the locker room without any apparent discomfort. Head Coach Mike McCarthy emphasized that a clearer picture of their condition would emerge after 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 noted, indicating a cautious optimism.
Defensive Concerns
Cornerback DaRon Bland was spotted at practice but remained on the sidelines, working with the team’s director of rehab, Britt Brown. Bland missed the Week 2 game against the New Orleans Saints after undergoing a procedure for a stress fracture in his foot. His absence, along with other injuries, had a noticeable impact on the Cowboys' defense, which allowed touchdowns on each of the Saints' first six drives. The return of Bland could potentially stiffen a defense that seemed vulnerable last Sunday.
Jake Ferguson's Status
Jake Ferguson, who missed the Week 2 game due to a bone bruise and MCL sprain, was a limited participant in practice on Wednesday. The tight end sustained his injuries during the Cowboys' Week 1 victory over the Browns. Quarterback Dak Prescott highlighted Ferguson's significant role both on and off the field. "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 said.
McCarthy also acknowledged Ferguson's crucial presence in 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," the coach stated, underlining the importance of Ferguson’s potential return.
Additional Injury Concerns
Rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith had to leave practice early due to a back injury on Wednesday. His early departure could add another layer of difficulty for a team already scrambling to get back on track defensively.
The injury woes are certainly not helping the Cowboys as they approach an important game against the Ravens. Facing an offensively dynamic team with key players still in recovery could pose a significant challenge. As Thursday's padded practice approaches, the Cowboys and their fans will be looking for more definitive answers about the status of their injured players.
As the team continues to navigate these challenges, the resilience and adaptability of the backup players will be put to the test. The coming days will be crucial not only for the injured stars but also for the team as a whole, gearing up to face a formidable opponent with determination and hope.