The Dallas Cowboys are reeling at 3-5 after an embarrassing overtime loss to the Arizona Cardinals, and Week 9 against the Indianapolis Colts is an absolute must-win situation. Seriously, if they somehow drop this game, it would be a devastating setback for the entire season. You’ve got the 4-2-1 New York Giants just within striking distance in the NFC East, and the Cowboys cannot afford to let them pull away.
The Hopeful, But Not Confident, Injury Update
A huge piece of the puzzle for the Cowboys this week hinges on their health, which has become a bit of a problem. But, thankfully, beat writer Tommy Yarrish shared a “hopeful” update from head coach Brian Schottenheimer regarding wide receiver George Pickens and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. Schottenheimer told @1053thefan that both Pickens, who’s dealing with a hamstring issue, and Porter Jr., with an ankle problem, will be “a little bit limited.” But the big takeaway was that Schottenheimer is “‘hopeful’ they’re able to play Sunday vs. Indianapolis.” Now, let’s be real: that’s not exactly a booming vote of confidence. He didn’t come right out and say they’re playing. Still, the fact that he’s even “hopeful” is a decent sign that both players could potentially suit up. They both remain questionable, and it’s a safe bet that status won’t change before the final injury report.
High Stakes, Trade Rumors, and a “Hapless” Opponent
Under normal circumstances, you might think the Cowboys could handle the “hapless Colts” without two key players. But after that Week 8 meltdown against the Cardinals, they absolutely cannot take anything lightly. Every snap, every possession, every player matters. Pickens and Porter Jr. aren’t just linked by their Pittsburgh Steelers roots, they’re also both set to hit free agency this offseason, which presents a whole other set of problems for the front office. There have already been trade rumors swirling around Pickens this season, and a loss to the Colts could be the catalyst that finally pushes Jerry Jones to pull the trigger and trade him. Yeah, the stakes are *that* high. Jones even had to defend Schottenheimer after the Cardinals collapse, so you know the pressure is on everyone. The Cowboys need to see if Pickens is good to go, and right now, all they’ve got is hope.
This “hopeful” update is better than being ruled out, but the uncertainty is definitely something to keep an eye on during the team’s final practice on Friday and right up until kickoff against the Colts.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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