The Dallas Cowboys are staring down a nightmare scenario that could have major implications for their season. As injuries pile up, the team will likely be without two of their most crucial defensive players—Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence—over the next couple of weeks.
Micah Parsons, who was carted off the field in Week 4 with a high-ankle sprain, has thankfully avoided a worst-case scenario. However, no clear timetable for his return has been established, and it’s expected the Cowboys may take a cautious approach with their defensive star. That likely means Parsons will sit out their Week 5 matchup against the undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers.
Adding to their woes, defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence sustained a foot injury, which, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, is expected to sideline him for multiple weeks.
Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy said DeMarcus Lawrence’s foot sprain is worse than Micah Parsons’ ankle injury. McCarthy said both players will have second opinions, but both injuries are worse than they originally anticipated
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) September 27, 2024
With the Cowboys’ bye week coming in Week 7, the team may opt to give both Parsons and Lawrence extra rest, potentially ruling them out for back-to-back games against the Steelers and Detroit Lions. While this cautious approach might benefit Dallas in the long run, it creates an immediate defensive crisis.
For head coach Mike McCarthy and defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, the short-term outlook is bleak. The Cowboys are running dangerously low on defensive ends. Their active roster currently includes rookie Marshawn Kneeland, Chauncey Golston, and the relatively untested Tyrus Wheat. The team has also been promoting Carl Lawson from the practice squad in recent games and may continue to do so.
Still, without Parsons and Lawrence, the Cowboys’ defensive line looks worryingly thin. Both players are cornerstones of Dallas’ pass rush, and their absence leaves a glaring gap that could seriously affect the team’s ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and stop the run. For a defense that’s already struggled in these areas, losing both edge rushers makes a bad situation even worse.
The Cowboys are in for a serious test, especially considering their upcoming matchups. Both the Steelers and Lions favor physical, run-heavy offensive schemes and will likely exploit the Cowboys’ weakened defensive front. Opponents will undoubtedly look to run the ball along the perimeter, hoping to replicate the success that the Ravens and Saints have had against Dallas’ defense in recent weeks.
If Dallas can’t find a way to patch up its defensive line, they could face a disastrous stretch heading into their bye week. Falling to 0-2 over the next two games could put the Cowboys in a tough spot, especially with a daunting schedule ahead. After the bye, Dallas will face a series of formidable opponents, including the 49ers, Falcons, Eagles, Texans, and Commanders—teams that will be difficult to beat without a healthy defensive unit.
In the short term, the Cowboys might be wise to explore options for bringing in outside help, whether through trades, free agency, or practice squad elevations. If they don’t address the depth issue, they risk fielding a questionable defensive front, especially against a Steelers team that’s notorious for capitalizing on opponents’ weaknesses.
All eyes will be on the recovery of Parsons and Lawrence, as the Cowboys desperately need their defensive stars back to avoid what could be a season-defining skid. For now, Dallas can only hope for quick healing and brace for two crucial games without their top pass rushers.
