Dallas Cowboys key defensive starter ruled out for Sunday vs. Chargers
The Dallas Cowboys have had a brutal week when it comes to injuries, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Starting safety Donovan Wilson has been on the Cowboys’ lengthy injury report throughout the week, but was listed as questionable as of Friday.
On Saturday, that status changed for the worst.
“Cowboys safety Donovan Wilson has been downgraded to out and will not be traveling with the team to Los Angeles,” John Machota of the Athletic reported via Twitter. “Cowboys thin at safety. There should be a lot of playing time for Malik Hooker, who will be making his regular season Cowboys debut.”
Dallas Cowboys injuries for Week 2
The Cowboys have 18 players inactive for their Week 2 game; 13 of which are currently on the injured reserve. Dallas recently added starting defensive end Demarcus Lawrence and wide receiver Michael Gallup to the IR list this week. Both players suffered significant injuries in the opening loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last Thursday. Lawrence underwent successful foot surgery to repair a broken bone in his foot end is expected to be out six to eight weeks. Gallup suffered a strained calf in the second half of the game against the Buccaneers and is expected to be out at least three weeks.
The Cowboys ruled out three players this week for various reasons. Ty Nsekhe is out with an illness, but it is unclear what the illness is related to. Defensive end Randy Gregory was ruled out of the game on Thursday and is currently in COVID-19 protocol.
Offensive tackle La’el Collins was suspended by the league for five games for violating the NFL’s policy on substance abuse. The starting tackle is currently appealing the suspension but remains ruled out against the Chargers. This isn’t ideal for Dallas Cowboys fans.
The other starting safety, Damontae Kazee was also limited in practice on Thursday because of a thigh injury. Unlike Wilson, Kazee played the majority of the game against Tampa. Cowboys fans should continue to monitor the Kazee injury as he remains listed as questionable. With Hooker likely filling the void left by Wilson, Dallas would have to turn to veteran defensive back Jayron Kearse if Kazee can’t play.
The Cowboys are currently in third place in the NFC East after Thursday night’s game saw the Washington Football Team pick up a win against the New York Giants.
With Wilson officially added to the list of Dallas Cowboys who won’t suit up against the ultra-talented Chargers, Sunday’s home opener looks even more difficult.