Cowboys' Week 4 inactives include worrying trend for defensive back

The Dallas Cowboys' chances of bouncing back from a Week 3 disaster are already looking good with two returning offensive linemen: Center Tyler Biadasz and right guard Zack Martin.  Both are active ahead of the Week 4 showdown versus the New England Patriots. However, the team will still be missing left tackle Tyron Smith, who […]

Mauricio Rodriguez Dallas Cowboys News Writer
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Dallas Cowboys safety Israel Mukuamu (24) makes an interception during the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Cowboys' chances of bouncing back from a Week 3 disaster are already looking good with two returning offensive linemen: Center Tyler Biadasz and right guard Zack Martin. 

Both are active ahead of the Week 4 showdown versus the New England Patriots. However, the team will still be missing left tackle Tyron Smith, who was ruled out on Friday and is inactive today. 

Chuma Edoga will likely take his place at tackle, and he'll have his hands full against the Patriots' Matthew Judon and Josh Uche. Check out the full list of inactive players below.

Cowboys Inactives for Week 4

  • LT Tyron Smith 
  • TE Peyton Hendershot
  • S Israel Mukuamu
  • WR Jalen Brooks
  • DL Viliami Fehoko Jr.
  • CB Eric Scott Jr.
  • QB Trey Lance

Key observations 

  • This is Mukuamu's second consecutive week as a healthy scratch. While it's been a surprise given his versatility to play cornerback and safety, it's just difficult to carry six safeties on gameday. Markquese Bell has carved out a role as a de-facto linebacker and Juanyeh Thomas has risen as a special teams ace. Mukuamu has become the odd man out for now. While it's a worrying trend for the young defensive back, the explanation is crystal clear.
  • Peyton Hendershot appeared in the injury report this week and is being replaced by Sean McKeon, who was called up from the practice squad for this week. The Cowboys like to use multi-tight end sets and McKeon could fight for a bigger role with a strong day.
  • Rookies Jalen Brooks, Viliami Fehoko Jr., and Eric Scott Jr. continue to be healthy scratches. All daft picks, the Cowboys are too deep to have them on the field. 

Patriots Inactives