Dallas Cowboys defense potentially down another 3 players
When it rains, it pours. The only problem for the Dallas Cowboys is that it's been raining since Week 1 of the NFL season. After their impressive performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Cowboys have continued to lose important players to the COVID-19 protocol, injuries, and even a suspension. In Week 2, they played […]
When it rains, it pours. The only problem for the Dallas Cowboys is that it's been raining since Week 1 of the NFL season. After their impressive performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Cowboys have continued to lose important players to the COVID-19 protocol, injuries, and even a suspension.
In Week 2, they played without five of their Week 1 starters.
But not everything has been bad news for the Cowboys. Zack Martin returned from the COVID-19 reserve in Week 2 and Randy Gregory is expected to do the same in Week 3. However, other key defensive players might be absent from the playing field next Monday Night.
According to The Dallas Morning News, DE Dorance Armstrong will not play versus the Philadelphia Eagles with a high ankle sprain. He's expected to miss the next three games. Meanwhile, ESPN reported that they're unlike to count with DT Carlos Watkins (knee).
On top of these injuries, LB Keanu Neal's status is also in question as he was placed in the Reserve/COVID-19 list. While he isn't ruled out of the game yet, Neal should miss the entire practice week while he undergoes daily testing as a close contact.
And those are only the "new" injuries for the Cowboys.
DeMarcus Lawrence's foot injury has been the most important one to hit the Cowboys in 2021. The team's plans at Defensive End relied heavily on him and losing him for an extended period of time is a tough blow.
If Dallas Cowboys fans are looking for a reason for optimism, they don't have to look very far. Dan Quinn's defense made a strong statement against the Los Angeles Chargers by taking the ball away twice in big moments. Although they got some very lucky breaks – including two touchdowns being taken off the board – takeaways proved to be the difference.
Through two weeks, the Cowboys actually lead the NFL in turnover differential.
Plus, some Cowboys players are truly stepping up individually. Micah Parsons did a tremendous job of rushing the passer while essentially playing a different role as a full-time edge rusher. The Cowboys' safeties have emerged as one of this team's strengths. And Trevon Diggs has two picks through two weeks.
The Dallas Cowboys might get Randy Gregory and even Donovan Wilson back in time for Week 3. But DC Dan Quinn will continue to have to adjust as the team prepares to face their divisional rivals in the Cowboys' home opener.
Featured image via Billy Hardiman-USA TODAY Sports
