The Dallas Cowboys are facing a rough season, with quarterback Dak Prescott now set to be placed on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury. The extent of Prescott’s absence is uncertain, with team executive Stephen Jones stating that it could be anywhere from four to six weeks or possibly the entire season. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones had initially hoped Prescott could avoid season-ending surgery, but it seems likely that he will miss at least four games due to partially tearing his right hamstring off the bone. Prescott has a history of injuries, including breaking his ankle in 2022 and having thumb surgery in 2022.
In Prescott’s absence, Cooper Rush stepped in to play against the Falcons, finishing with 115 passing yards and a touchdown. Rush is expected to start in Week 10, with rookie Trey Lance potentially seeing some action as well. Prior to the season opener against the Browns, Prescott signed a record-breaking four-year, $240 million extension, making him the highest-paid player in NFL history. Despite a strong 2023 season with 4,516 passing yards and 36 touchdowns, Prescott has struggled in 2024, throwing for 11 touchdowns and eight interceptions in eight games amidst injuries and a lackluster running game.
The Cowboys have faced considerable challenges this season, with star pass rusher Micah Parsons missing four games and a struggling running game putting additional pressure on Prescott. After winning consecutive games against the Giants and Steelers, the Cowboys have now lost three in a row, bringing their record to 3-5. Their upcoming schedule does not provide much relief, as they face the Philadelphia Eagles at home in an NFC East matchup. Last year, despite finishing with a 12-5 record for the third straight season, the Cowboys were eliminated from the playoffs by the Green Bay Packers as the No. 2 seed in the NFC.
The injury to Prescott adds to the mounting difficulties for the team, as they navigate a challenging season with hopes of turning their fortunes around as they head towards the second half of the schedule. The team will rely on Rush to fill in for Prescott in the coming weeks, while also looking to rookie Lance for potential contributions. As they face off against division rivals and other tough opponents, the Cowboys will need to find ways to overcome their recent struggles and regain momentum in pursuit of a playoff berth. The team’s management and players will need to rally together in the face of adversity and work towards improving their performance on the field.
