Recent Cowboys news might force a last-minute change of plans regarding Dak Prescott

The Dallas Cowboys want to play Dak Prescott in Week 18. But at least, they need to plan for fewer snaps.

Mauricio Rodriguez — Dallas Cowboys News Writer
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The Dallas Cowboys have sustained their plan to play to win in Week 18 against the New York Giants. In fact, they are set to start quarterback Dak Prescott, though they’ve admitted backup Joe Milton could see playing time.

However, recent news might force head coach Brian Schottenheimer to at least reduce the playing time he had planned for Prescott: RB Javonte Williams is out with a shoulder injury. And if you’re wondering why that has anything to do with Prescott, allow me to remind you, Williams is much more than just a ballcarrier.

Cowboys’ pass pro suffered a big loss

Williams has been one of the NFL’s best pass-protecting running backs this season, allowing only six pressures in 113 opportunities. He’s the third-best graded running back in pass pro per PFF through 16 games. Meanwhile, rookie Jaydon Blue hasn’t gotten on the field much this season for “inconsistency.” Though Schottenheimer still believes he’s a dynamic ballcarrier, pass pro isn’t his strength.

Last week, Prescott was sacked six times and hit another 11, largely because Williams missed more than half of the game. Though Schotty wants to win, you have to assume pass pro concerns will play into his decision on how much Prescott will play. A win to avoid a losing record isn’t worth an injury to the most important player on the team.

Cowboys OL is also banged up

And that’s not all the concerns. This will be Tyler Smith’s third consecutive game playing at left tackle, which is not his best position, with Tyler Guyton on Injured Reserve. On Christmas Day, Smith struggled at times. Additionally, T.J. Bass — who was taking over Smith’s original role at left guard — is also ruled out. Brock Hoffman will replace him.

That’s a lot of moving for an offense. And for a game with no meaning in terms of playoff contention, this seems like a situation in which Schottenheimer needs to prioritize his franchise quarterback’s health over his desire to win.

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