Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy held his usual Thursday press conference and as has always been the case early in the season, injury woes were the central talking point. Dallas survived two games without stalwart left tackle Tyron Smith, but got him back for last week’s loss at Cleveland. It now appears he’s suffered a setback despite playing all 82 snaps last week.
The neck stingers have returned.
Tyron Smith (neck) is not expected to practice today. Mike McCarthy said Smith is further back than he was at this time last week
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) October 8, 2020
The Cowboys offensive line replaced two members in game, with center Tyler Biadasz coming in after one play to replace an injured Joe Looney (knee) and Brandon Knight coming in to spell a turnstile-ish Terence Steele (2 sacks, 1 strip) at right tackle. That seemed to settle down the line with Smith anchoring the left side, but missing him again will likely send the offensive line back into disarray.
Meanwhile there appears to be some positive news, as not only has middle linebacker Leighton Vander Esch began ramping up after collarbone surgery, there seems to be some semblance of a chance he plays this weekend, even if remote. Vander Esch will put on the pads on Thursday.
Well, this is interesting. Mike McCarthy said today that Leighton Vander Esch is ahead of schedule.
He obviously will need to clear the necessary medical protocols, but McCarthy didn’t rule out the possibility of him playing Sunday.
Interesting to see how he comes out of today. pic.twitter.com/Jrw4v4AaBU
— David Helman (@HelmanDC) October 8, 2020
With the way others have played all season, it’s possible Vander Esch returns to be the best player on a struggling defense, which could use his help. Jaylon Smith and Joe Thomas have played virtually every defensive snap since Vander Esch went down in Week 1, and he was going to be the focal point of Mike Nolan’s defense this year.
The Cowboys could certainly use a boost on defense as it appears the offense will have to play mix and match yet again.
Also of note, right tackle La’el Collins hip surgery was deemed successful and all signs look to a full recovery for the 2021 season.
I’m told #Cowboys T La’el Collins hip surgery in Baton Rouge was successful. Collins will rehab all offseason and be ready for next season
— Jane Slater (@SlaterNFL) October 8, 2020
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