Cowboys' first injury report of the playoffs is somewhat misleading
The Dallas Cowboys released their first injury report of the NFL Playoffs ahead of the Wild Card Round and it's a misleading one if read without the proper context. Naturally, Cowboys fans are in the lookout for the team's starters whose statuses seem to be up in the air ahead of the game versus the […]
The Dallas Cowboys released their first injury report of the NFL Playoffs ahead of the Wild Card Round and it's a misleading one if read without the proper context.
Naturally, Cowboys fans are in the lookout for the team's starters whose statuses seem to be up in the air ahead of the game versus the Green Bay Packers. Below is a quick rundown of who I'm talking about and their respective participation in Wednesday's practice:
- CB Stephon Gilmore – Did Not Practice (Shoulder)
- DT Johnathan Hankins – Limited (Ankle)
- LG Tyler Smith – Limited (Foot)
The above three are key as Gilmore suffered an injury in Week 18 against the Washington Commanders and didn't return to the game. Although a "DNP" on the first day of practice appears discouraging, Gilmore is talking without even a glimpse of doubt that he's playing.
"Yeah, for sure," Gilmore told reporters when asked if he was playing on Sunday. "I'll test it, probably (on Thursday…) Whatever it takes."
Speaking of misleading, Hankins was originally reported as a non-participant before the Cowboys sent a late correction to list him as "limited," per The Athletic's Jon Machota. That clears up a weird situation considering Hankins did return to play in the regular season finale.
Smith remains the biggest question entering Sunday. The Cowboys got some surprisingly good play from their backup guards versus the Washington Commanders but Smith has been one of the best interior linemen in the entire NFL in 2023. Having him versus the Packers and for the postseason will be absolutely critical.
Cowboys Injury Report vs. Packers
Additionally, the Cowboys had several veterans as DNP/Limited with rest days. Most notably, Zack Martin didn't appear with an illness which caused him to miss the game on Sunday, which means he's likely playing, as well.
NFC foe’s bombshell decision could cost the Cowboys Dan Quinn
Not great for Dallas.
