After securing a win against the New York Giants, the Dallas Cowboys are facing potential setbacks as star players Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence sustained injuries that could keep them off the field for numerous games, according to sources familiar with the situation. Parsons is dealing with a high ankle sprain, while Lawrence is nursing a foot sprain. The identities of the sources were kept confidential due to the lack of official details on the injuries.
Parsons suffered his injury during the fourth quarter of the Cowboys’ recent 20-15 triumph when an opposing player landed on his left leg as he was planting it. On the other hand, Lawrence exited the game in the third quarter and received tape on his foot but did not return to play. Parsons is anticipated to be evaluated on a weekly basis, while Lawrence’s recovery timeline is expected to be longer, pending further assessment.
The upcoming schedule for the Cowboys includes a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on October 6, followed by a match against the Detroit Lions on October 13, before their bye week. Missing these two games would allow Parsons and Lawrence approximately a month to recuperate from their injuries. Parsons mentioned post-game that X-rays conducted at the stadium did not indicate any severe damage, but he was scheduled for an MRI on Friday. Lawrence also expressed confidence, stating, “It’s just a sprained foot, but I’ll be fine.”
Both Parsons and Lawrence are crucial components of the Cowboys’ pass rush. Parsons, the reigning AP Defensive Rookie of the Year, started the season with an impressive streak, becoming only the second player, alongside Reggie White, to achieve at least 12 sacks in each of his first three seasons since the NFL recognized sacks as an official statistic in 1982. Meanwhile, Lawrence, in his 11th season, recorded a sack against the Giants and currently ranks 10th on the team’s all-time sack list with 61.5 sacks.
The Cowboys will need to strategize and adapt to the potential absence of Parsons and Lawrence in the upcoming games to maintain their competitive edge on the field.