The Cowboys continue to add good news when it comes to injury returns. Earlier in the week, head coach Mike McCarthy had already said that DeMarcus Lawrence was close to returning to training. Well, this is already a reality.
This Wednesday, the Cowboys designated Lawrence to return from injured reserve. With this, the defensive end returned to training as of yesterday, and will be able to fully participate in both individual and team practices. This kicks off the 21-day practice window, within which time “Tank” could return to the active roster.
The @dallascowboys made the following transactions on Wednesday:
Designated for Return from Reserve/Injured:
– DE DeMarcus LawrencePlaced on Reserve/Injured:
– S Donovan Wilson— Dallas Cowboys Public Relations (@DallasCowboysPR) November 24, 2021
Recall that DeMarcus Lawrence suffered a broken foot during week 2 pregame practice against the Chargers. That injury required surgery, and this resulted in a 10-week loss for the pass-rusher. Now, after doing rehab work for the past few weeks, “Tank” is about to play again.
Due to the timing From this designation, Lawrence’s participation in the Thanksgiving game against the Raiders is totally ruled out. However, several reports invite optimism.
In fact, Ed Werder the ESPN and Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News indicate that the Cowboys could activate Lawrence for the Week 13 game against the Saints. However, this will depend on the performance of the defensive end during the following practices. And, of course, if the coaching staff decides to give him more time to adapt before his return.
Cowboys DE DeMarcus Lawrence is practicing for first time since Week 2 foot fracture. He won’t play Thursday vs. Raiders, but Dec. 2 at Saints is a possibility. pic.twitter.com/pKokgBUc0f
– Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) November 24, 2021
With this, the Cowboys would have back several starters from their defensive line for the final stretch of the regular season. One of them would be defensive tackle Neville Gallimore, who has been out since the preseason due to a shoulder injury. And even though CBS Sports indicates that the return of Gallimore is estimated for week 13, there is no news in this regard.
On the other hand, a return that could take time is that of Randy Gregory. The defensive end, who suffered a calf injury, could be activated from injured reserve starting next week. Nevertheless, Michael Gehlken of Dallas Morning News reported that Gregory is unlikely to be able to play the Saints. This, according to the report, because your injury may take a little longer to fully heal.
High expectations with Lawrence’s return
Although DeMarcus Lawrence’s return wouldn’t happen until at least week 13, expectations are very high. Dallas has managed to cope during the loss of “Tank” when it comes to pressuring and capturing rival quarterbacks. This, in large part, thanks to the production of Micah Parsons and Randy Gregory.
Parsons’ performance deserves special mention. With Lawrence down, defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has exploited the rookie’s versatility by using him as a defensive end and designated pass rusher. Because of this, Parsons has accumulated 18 hits to the quarterback and 8 sacks so far, leading the team in this section.
Now, with Lawrence close to returning to action and Gregory on the same track, the Cowboys could count on a relentless trio of pass rushers. This would undoubtedly serve the cowboy team very well in the final games of the regular season. However, this will depend on how Dan Quinn uses Parsons, considering how shallow Dallas has at linebacker.
Either way, the soon return of DeMarcus Lawrence is positive news for the Cowboys. Aside from his pass-rusher role, “Tank” is also valuable in ground defense. Therefore, Dallas’ defensive line would improve in a stretch of the season where they will need a strong performance to secure the divisional title and advance to the playoffs.
Haven’t been this happy to see a client returning to practice in forever. Welcome back @TankLawrence pic.twitter.com/ZTfPunGUzB
— David Canter (@davidcanter) November 24, 2021
