The Dallas Cowboys kicked off their preparations for Week 3 with a cautious approach, as they managed a raft of injuries ahead of their clash with the Baltimore Ravens. Despite the array of ailments plaguing the team, there are glimmers of hope regarding the status of some key players.
Key Players Sideline Update
Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was notably absent from practice due to an ankle injury. Cornerback Trevon Diggs also missed the session because of a foot issue. Fortunately for Cowboys fans, both Lamb and Diggs were seen moving around the locker room without any evident discomfort.
Dallas head coach Mike McCarthy commented on their status, explaining, "a clearer assessment of their condition would come after Thursday’s padded practice." This wait-and-see approach indicates that while their injuries are being monitored carefully, there's cautious optimism about their availability for the game against the Ravens.
Bland's Return on the Horizon?
Adding to the injury concerns, defensive back DaRon Bland was present at practice but participated only in limited activities. He worked off to the side with the team's director of rehab, Britt Brown. Bland missed Week 2 against the New Orleans Saints after undergoing a procedure for a stress fracture in his foot. Cowboys fans are eager to see him return, especially given the defensive struggles displayed last week.
In Week 2, the Cowboys' defense was uncharacteristically porous, conceding touchdowns on each of the Saints' first six drives. The potential return of Bland could provide a much-needed boost to their defensive unit.
Ferguson’s Fight to Return
Jake Ferguson, who has been dealing with a bone bruise and MCL sprain, was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice. He missed the Week 2 game due to these injuries, which he sustained during the Cowboys’ Week 1 victory over the Browns.
Coach McCarthy was cautiously optimistic about Ferguson's progress, saying, "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 highlighted Ferguson's importance to the teams, noting: "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."
New Additions Continue to Step Up
In Ferguson's absence, rookie tight end Luke Schoonmaker and undrafted rookie Brevyn Spann-Ford were tasked with filling in. Prescott praised their efforts, saying, "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. They did their job and stepped up. They made some plays, but [the game] just got away from us."
Mazi Smith's Early Exit
Further complicating the Cowboys' injury woes, rookie defensive tackle Mazi Smith left Wednesday's practice early with a back injury. His condition will undoubtedly be closely monitored in the coming days as the team prepares for the Ravens.
As the Cowboys navigate a challenging injury landscape, their ability to adapt and show resilience will be crucial. The upcoming padded practice on Thursday will offer a clearer picture of who will be ready to take the field, but until then, the team remains hopeful and focused on making strides in their preparation for the pivotal Week 3 matchup.