The Dallas Cowboys commenced preparations for Week 3 with caution, as several key players were nursing injuries ahead of their high-stakes clash against the Baltimore Ravens. This came after a challenging Week 2, where their defense struggled significantly against the New Orleans Saints.
Injury Watch: CeeDee Lamb and Trevon Diggs
Star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was notably absent from practice due to an ankle injury. Similarly, cornerback Trevon Diggs missed practice with a foot ailment. Despite their absences, both Lamb and Diggs were seen walking around the locker room without any visible discomfort, suggesting that their injuries may not be severe. Coach Mike McCarthy remains optimistic but cautious, noting, "We will have a clearer assessment of their condition after Thursday’s padded practice."
DaRon Bland on the Mend
Defensive back DaRon Bland, who missed Week 2 following a procedure for a stress fracture in his foot, was present at practice. However, Bland's participation was limited to working on the side with the team's director of rehab, Britt Brown. His return is seen as vital after the Cowboys' defense conceded touchdowns on the Saints' first six drives in the previous game.
Jake Ferguson's Crucial Role
Another key player, tight end Jake Ferguson, was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice. Ferguson missed the game against the Saints due to a bone bruise and MCL sprain, injuries sustained in the second half of the Cowboys' Week 1 victory over the Browns. Coach McCarthy expressed cautious optimism about Ferguson's return, stating, "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."
Quarterback Dak Prescott also emphasized Ferguson's impact, especially praising the efforts of the young tight ends who filled in during his 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."
Rookie Defensive Tackle: Another Cause for Concern
Rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith added to the Cowboys' injury woes when he had to leave practice early on Wednesday due to a back injury. His condition will be monitored closely as the team prepares for the Ravens.
The mounting injuries pose a significant challenge for the Cowboys as they look to bounce back from their defensive struggles against the Saints. Coach McCarthy will be hoping that the team can get healthier as they move deeper into the season, especially with pivotal players like Lamb, Diggs, and Ferguson aiming for a return. Thursday’s padded practice will be a crucial indicator of whether key personnel can make it back to the field for Week 3, providing a needed boost for the Cowboys in their quest to stabilize and find success against stiff competition.