Clowney’s Injury Status Remains Unclear as Cowboys Prepare for Lions
The Dallas Cowboys are managing several injuries as they prepare for a crucial Thursday Night Football matchup against the Detroit Lions. Defensive end Jadeveon Clowney delivered his best performance as a Cowboy last week but is still working through an injury. During Sunday’s practice, Clowney was seen with the team’s director of rehabilitation using resistance cords. It is not clear if he is still dealing with the neck injury that limited him before the game against the Kansas City Chiefs or if a new issue has emerged. The first official injury report for the week will be released Monday, but Clowney’s health is a top concern for a defense that has improved in recent weeks. The Cowboys’ defensive line depth will be tested if Clowney cannot play, especially with the playoff race heating up.
Practice Squad Moves Add Depth at Running Back
The Cowboys signed running back Israel Abanikanda to their practice squad on Sunday. Abanikanda, a 23-year-old former fifth-round pick by the New York Jets, appeared in six games this season and rushed for 70 yards on 22 carries. He was waived by the Jets in December and spent brief stints with the San Francisco 49ers and Green Bay Packers practice squads. With Malik Davis recently promoted to the active roster as the second option at running back, Abanikanda provides much-needed depth. The Cowboys’ running back group has been reshuffled due to injuries and performance, and the addition of Abanikanda gives the team flexibility as they approach the final stretch of the season.
Trevon Diggs Nears Return to Bolster Secondary
Cornerback Trevon Diggs is expected to return from injured reserve before the next game against the Lions. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones confirmed Diggs will likely be activated barring any setbacks. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said the team plans to open Diggs’ 21-day practice window on Sunday. Diggs’ return is significant for a secondary that has dealt with multiple injuries. DaRon Bland left the recent game against the Chiefs with a foot injury but returned later, while Caelen Carson is recovering from soreness and could play next Thursday. Veteran safety Malik Hooker left the same game with back spasms but is expected to be available. The Cowboys’ secondary will benefit from Diggs’ playmaking ability as they face a must-win situation against Detroit.
Offensive Line Adjustments After Guyton’s Injury
Left tackle Tyler Guyton suffered an ankle injury and was ruled out for the Thanksgiving Day game against the Chiefs. Nate Thomas started at left tackle in his place. The offensive line has been forced to adjust quickly, with several players limited or inactive due to injuries. The Cowboys’ offensive line will need to protect quarterback Dak Prescott as they face a strong Detroit pass rush. Guyton’s status for the upcoming game remains uncertain, and his absence could impact the team’s ability to run the ball and keep Prescott upright.
George Pickens and Javonte Williams Set Career Highs
Wide receiver George Pickens ended his streak of consecutive 140-yard games but still had a productive outing with 88 receiving yards on six catches and a two-point conversion late in the fourth quarter. Pickens set a personal career-high with 1,142 receiving yards this season, becoming a key target for Prescott. Running back Javonte Williams also set career highs, surpassing his previous best from his time with the Denver Broncos. Williams now has 955 rushing yards after gaining 59 yards in the latest game and caught a touchdown pass from Prescott. The Cowboys’ offense has relied on these playmakers to keep pace in the playoff race.
Dak Prescott Leads Cowboys to Thanksgiving Victory
Quarterback Dak Prescott led the Cowboys to a critical 31-28 win over the Chiefs on Thanksgiving Day. Prescott overcame an early interception and connected on key plays, including a 15-yard touchdown pass to CeeDee Lamb and a scrambling touchdown pass to Williams. The Cowboys’ offense produced three consecutive scoring drives in the second half, helping them take control of the game. Backup running back Malik Davis made a significant impact with a 43-yard touchdown run, justifying his recent promotion to the active roster. The Cowboys’ balanced attack and improved defense have positioned them as legitimate playoff contenders.
Playoff Odds Improve After Back-to-Back Wins
The Cowboys’ victory over the Chiefs improved their playoff chances from 11.4% to 21%, according to the SportsLine model. After a challenging first half of the season, Dallas has gone undefeated since their bye week, including back-to-back wins against last year’s Super Bowl teams, the Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. According to The New York Times’ Playoff Simulator, the Cowboys now have a 24% chance to make the playoffs. However, their odds of winning the NFC East remain low at just 3%, as they still trail Philadelphia by two wins. The Cowboys currently hold the No. 9 spot in the NFC playoff picture and must continue winning to keep their postseason hopes alive.
Upcoming Matchup Against Detroit Lions Is Critical
The upcoming Thursday Night Football game against the Lions is a must-win for both teams. The Lions currently lead the Cowboys by half a game in the NFC standings. This game is likely an elimination-style contest, where a loss could severely damage either team’s playoff chances. The Cowboys remain 1.5 games behind the San Francisco 49ers, who hold the seventh spot in the conference. Every remaining game is critical for Dallas, and the matchup against Detroit is especially important as the Cowboys look to extend their winning streak and climb the playoff ladder.
Other Notable Updates and Roster Moves
Practice squad cornerback Robert Rochell was signed by the Carolina Panthers after providing depth for Dallas earlier this season. The Cowboys’ defense has improved since acquiring All-Pro defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and linebacker DeMarvion Overshown around Week 11. The team now ranks fourth in run defense, allowing just under 70 rushing yards per game. Special teams also contributed, with KaVontae Turpin recovering a key fumble that led to a field goal late in the game. Prescott was nominated for the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award for the fifth consecutive year, highlighting his leadership on and off the field.
The Dallas Cowboys are entering a pivotal stretch of the season with improved health for key players, a stronger defense, and a balanced offense. The next few games will determine whether they can secure a playoff spot and continue their push for postseason success.