The Dallas Cowboys’ season took a grim turn as quarterback Dak Prescott suffered a significant right hamstring injury that may end his season. Prescott’s injury, sustained during Sunday’s 27-21 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, initially appeared manageable, but by mid-week, the prognosis had worsened dramatically. Prescott described feeling a “pull” in his hamstring, unlike anything he’d felt before, and struggled to walk post-game.
After an initial period of uncertainty, Monday brought news that Prescott would likely miss several games. By Tuesday, team owner Jerry Jones acknowledged that Prescott might be placed on injured reserve, which would sideline him for at least four games. However, on Wednesday, The Dallas Morning News reported that the injury involves a partial avulsion of his right hamstring tendon. This serious condition could require surgery, which would end Prescott’s season. The quarterback is currently seeking additional medical opinions before a final decision is made.
The potential loss of Prescott adds another blow to the Cowboys’ challenging season. With a 3-5 record, they already face a tough road to the playoffs. Prescott himself has had a challenging season, recording 1,978 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and eight interceptions with a completion rate of 64.7%—his lowest since 2017. While he hasn’t been playing at his peak, his absence would leave a considerable void as the team’s leader on the field.
The Cowboys are dealing with injuries across their roster, with key players like CeeDee Lamb (shoulder), Micah Parsons (ankle), and DaRon Bland (foot) also facing issues. With three of their next four games against NFC East rivals, the timing of Prescott’s absence couldn’t be worse. Dallas sits third in the division, and missing their starting quarterback could significantly impact their chances in these crucial matchups.
Backup quarterback Cooper Rush is now tasked with stepping in for Prescott. Rush’s challenge is clear: keep the Cowboys competitive in an uphill battle for postseason contention. The Cowboys made only one trade deadline acquisition, bringing in wide receiver Jonathan Mingo from the Carolina Panthers. However, the offensive reshuffle may not be enough to offset the challenges ahead without Prescott.
As the Cowboys brace for what looks like an uncertain future, the team and fans await Prescott’s final diagnosis. If surgery is indeed required, the 2023 season may close out prematurely for both Prescott and the Cowboys’ playoff hopes.