The Dallas Cowboys have kicked off their preparations for Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens in a measured manner, as they manage a series of injuries affecting key players.
Key Players Sidelined
Notably, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and cornerback Trevon Diggs missed practice due to respective ankle and foot injuries. Despite their absence on the field, both players were observed moving around the locker room without significant discomfort. Coach Mike McCarthy emphasized that a clearer picture of their readiness would be available after Thursday’s padded practice.
In addition to Lamb and Diggs, rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith cut his practice session short on Wednesday due to a troubling back injury, adding further concern to the team's defensive lineup. Meanwhile, DaRon Bland, who missed Week 2 following a procedure for a stress fracture in his foot, was spotted working on the sidelines with Britt Brown, the team's director of rehab.
Week 2 Struggles
The absence of key defensive players was felt acutely in Week 2, where the Cowboys' defense allowed the New Orleans Saints to score touchdowns on each of their first six drives. This defensive lapse underscores the importance of having a fully healthy squad as the team looks to bounce back against the Ravens.
Optimism for Jake Ferguson's Return
The situation is somewhat brighter in the offensive camp. Tight end Jake Ferguson participated in a limited capacity during Wednesday’s practice. Ferguson, who suffered a bone bruise and MCL sprain in Week 1 and subsequently missed the game against the Saints, is pivotal for the Cowboys. His physical style and aggressive play bring a contagious energy to the team, as voiced by quarterback Dak Prescott.
"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 explained.
McCarthy shared his sense of cautious optimism regarding Ferguson's health, stating, "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."
Ferguson's potential return could provide a significant boost to the Cowboys, given his influential role within 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," McCarthy added.
As the Cowboys gear up for their crucial clash with the Ravens, the team's ability to navigate these injury woes will be vital. The health updates and readiness of key players like Lamb, Diggs, and Ferguson will likely be pivotal in determining the team’s fortunes in Week 3. For now, all eyes are on Thursday’s practice, which could provide much-needed clarity on the condition of the squad.