Cowboys' injuries mount as safety Markquese Bell, quarterback Dak Prescott face season-ending surgeries

Alex Parker

u/alex •

The Dallas Cowboys are facing significant injuries to key players across offense, defense, and special teams.

Why it matters: These injuries have a direct impact on the team's performance and their ability to compete in the season.

  • Safety Markquese Bell is out for the season with a dislocated left shoulder that may require surgery.
  • Quarterback Dak Prescott is also sidelined for the rest of the season due to a hamstring injury that required surgery.
  • Defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence has been on injured reserve since Week 4 with a midfoot sprain.
  • Cornerback DaRon Bland has yet to play this season after undergoing foot surgery in August.

What's new: Wide receiver Brandin Cooks and defensive end Marshawn Kneeland have returned to practice after recovering from knee injuries. Cooks had been sidelined due to a knee infection, while Kneeland suffered a knee injury against the Steelers in Week 5.

Yes, but: Despite the return of Cooks and Kneeland, the absence of key players like Prescott and Lawrence significantly impacts the team's overall performance.

  • John Fassel, the special teams coordinator, expressed his disappointment over Bell's injury, highlighting his valuable contributions to the team.

By the numbers: Some notable statistics related to these injuries include:

  • Markquese Bell's absence leaves a void in the secondary, where he had made significant contributions throughout the season.
  • Dak Prescott's absence deprives the Cowboys of their starting quarterback and leader of the offense.

What to watch: The Cowboys' depth will be tested as they navigate the remainder of the season without several key players. It will be crucial to monitor how the team adjusts and the performances of the players stepping into starting roles.

What's next: The Cowboys will need to rely on backup quarterback Cooper Rush to lead the offense in Prescott's absence. The team will also need other defensive players to step up in place of Lawrence and Bland.

The bottom line: The Cowboys' playoff hopes may be challenged by the significant injuries they are currently facing. The team will need to show resilience and adaptability to overcome these setbacks and remain competitive in a tough season.

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