Injuries are seriously shaking up the Cowboys' lineup, and it's more complicated than what meets the eye. The team has just ruled out five players and listed seven more as questionable — but here’s where it gets controversial: some of these decisions could shape their season in unexpected ways.
First off, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and right guard Tyler Booker won’t be suiting up again for the third week in a row due to ankle sprains. What’s interesting, though, is that the team opted not to place either player on injured reserve. Instead, they’re betting on these guys missing only three games — a strategic gamble that might backfire if their recoveries take longer than expected.
Additionally, the Cowboys have officially ruled out wide receiver KaVontae Turpin (foot), linebacker Jack Sanborn (concussion), and running back Miles Sanders, who’s dealing with knee and ankle issues. Miles Sanders’ injury is particularly significant because he’s set to be put on season-ending injured reserve this Saturday, as revealed by executive vice president Stephen Jones during his appearance on 105.3 The Fan radio show. This move effectively sidelines a key offensive player for the remainder of the year.
But the injury troubles don’t stop there. Seven other players have been tagged as questionable, adding even more uncertainty about the team's depth and performance. These players include left guard Tyler Smith (knee), cornerback DaRon Bland (shoulder), cornerback Trevon Diggs (knee), defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (ankle), wide receiver Jonathan Mingo (knee), cornerback Caelen Carson (knee), and offensive tackle Ajani Cornelius, who is dealing with knee issues on both legs.
It’s worth noting that Mingo and Carson are still officially on injured reserve but have just finished their second week of practice within the mandated 21-day recovery window, meaning their potential return is cautiously being evaluated.
On a slightly brighter note, left tackle Tyler Guyton, who had missed Sunday’s game due to a concussion, has been cleared to return — a rare piece of good news amid this swarm of injuries.
Here’s the part most people miss: with so many key players either out or questionable, the Cowboys face a critical crossroads. Will they fully recover and rebound, or will these injuries derail what could have been a promising season? And what about the risks the team is taking by delaying placing some players on injured reserve? It raises real questions about whether these decisions are driven by hope or calculated strategy.
What do you think — is the Cowboys' approach to handling injuries smart risk management or a gamble that could cost them down the road? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
