OXNARD, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 8: Dallas Cowboys group player huddle during a joint practice against the Los Angeles Rams at River Ridge Playing Fields on August 8, 2024 in Oxnard, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images)
As the Dallas Cowboys (3-7) prepare to face the Washington Commanders (7-4), the season’s defining theme has been the relentless wave of injuries plaguing the Cowboys’ starting lineup.
Several key players have missed time, with a few lost for the season, including:
- QB Dak Prescott
- WR Brandin Cooks
- LT Tyler Guyton
- DE Sam Williams
- DE Micah Parsons
- DE Marshawn Kneeland
- DE DeMarcus “Tank” Lawrence
- LB Eric Kendricks
- CB DaRon Bland
The silver lining is that up to three of these key players are nearing a return and could rejoin the lineup for Sunday’s matchup against the Commanders.
Among them is wide receiver Brandin Cooks, whose absence has been so prolonged that it’s easy to forget he’s even on the roster. While that might sound harsh, Cooks hasn’t made a significant impact this season. His last game was in Week 4, a victory over the Giants, where he managed just one reception for 16 yards. That brought his season totals to nine catches for 91 yards over four games.
Cooks had shown promise in the season opener against Cleveland, with four receptions for 40 yards and a touchdown, suggesting he might become one of Dak Prescott’s go-to targets. However, the offense’s struggles soon derailed that potential.
Now, with Cooper Rush stepping in as quarterback, it will take time to build chemistry. Fortunately, as a seasoned veteran, Cooks has the experience and awareness to position himself effectively and become a reliable option for the offense immediately upon his return.
