Injury Strikes During Steelers Game
The Dallas Cowboys, already struggling due to the absence of Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence due to injuries, suffered another disaster during their recent game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Marshawn Kneeland, a rookie defensive end who was not enough to fill in, was ejected on the fourth defensive play.
The incident occurred when Kneeland sacked quarterback Justin Fields. A subsequent unrelated knee injury saw him escorted to the green medical tent and then taken to the locker room for further evaluation. He was replaced by Tyrus Wheat, and Kneeland’s return to the field was canceled.
Role of Kneeland and Golston
After the absence of Parsons and Lawrence, the Cowboys put their faith in Kneeland and Chauncey Golston. Kneeland lived up to expectations, getting credited with six tackles, a tackle for loss, and six quarterback pressures. Wheat, who had been inactive for two of the first four games, was brought back, and Carl Lawson was called up to the practice squad for the third straight game.
Parsons and Lawrence: A Significant Loss
Parsons’ absence is the first game he has missed due to injury in his career. He currently has a high left ankle sprain against the New York Giants, with a recovery time of two to four weeks. Lawrence, who suffered a Lisfranc injury to his right foot during the same game, was placed on injured reserve. His recovery time is expected to be four to eight weeks, although he did not undergo surgery.
The Impact of Injuries on the Team
The Cowboys have been hit hard by injuries at their defensive end. Early in training camp, Sam Williams, who was expected to be the third running back behind Parsons and Lawrence, bowed out with a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament tear. The injury spells tough times ahead for the Dallas Cowboys as they face the challenges of an ever-demanding NFL season.
