Cowboys opener vs. Giants shaping up to get a whole lot easier

Like clockwork, the Dallas Cowboys were in the news yet again days before their Week 1 opener versus the New York Giants. No, it was not for an off-the-field reason, rather it was for an injury. If you guessed left tackle Tyron Smith was the person in the injury news, that would be a smart […]

Tyler Browning

Sep 8, 2023 3:09 PM EDT

Like clockwork, the Dallas Cowboys were in the news yet again days before their Week 1 opener versus the New York Giants.

No, it was not for an off-the-field reason, rather it was for an injury. If you guessed left tackle Tyron Smith was the person in the injury news, that would be a smart bet.

It was announced on Thursday that Tyron was limited in practice. But it wasn't just Tyron, Tyler Smith's status for Sunday remains in question as well.

Tyron Smith was limited Thursday with what's been termed a minor ankle sprain. Speaking on 105.3 The Fan on Friday, Mike McCarthy said, " I think we're going to be OK there," of Smith. Of Tyler Smith, who has a hamstring strain, his availability for Sunday remains in question.
— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) September 8, 2023

Tyron is basically guaranteed to miss some time every year considering he hasn't played a full season since 2015. It is just unfortunate to see him pop up on the injury report so soon in the season. The good news is the Cowboys hope they'll avoid a worst-case scenario as head coach Mike McCarthy admitted they should be okay regarding Tyron's availability.

After a deflating morning, Cowboys fans got a boost of confidence with the latest news from ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Giants are listing TE Darren Waller as questionable for Sunday night’s game vs. Dallas due to a hamstring injury.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 8, 2023

Darren Waller was the Giants' acquisition this off-season, as they got him via trade with the Las Vegas Raiders. Waller is handily the Giants' best-receiving option and one of the biggest threats to the Cowboys' Week 1 by far. His matchup with safety Jayron Kearse is easily one of the most anticipated ones leading up to Sunday night.

Waller potentially being out has to put Cowboys fans' minds at ease. The best defense in football against a Giants' offense whose best pass catcher is running back Saquon Barkley? On top of that, wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson is listed as doubtful for the game.

It certainly has to help any nerves the players might have.