Luke Schoonmaker, the Cowboys’ tight end, wasn’t even on the injury report Wednesday, but Thursday he was a total non-participant in practice, adding a fresh groin issue to the team’s growing list of concerns. That’s a quick turnaround from healthy to sidelined, and it’s definitely not what Dallas needs right now.
Fresh Faces on the Sidelines and a Return to Full Speed
It wasn’t just Schoonmaker making a sudden appearance on the injury report. Offensive guard Tyler Smith, who also wasn’t listed Wednesday, was added Thursday with an ankle issue. The good news for him, at least, is he was a full participant in practice. Still, seeing a name like Smith pop up unexpectedly is always a jolt. On the brighter side, defensive tackle Jonathan Bullard is back in the mix. His 21-day practice window officially opened, and he jumped straight into full participation after dealing with a calf injury. That’s a strong sign he’s ready to contribute again.
Key Players Edging Closer While Others Remain Limited
Two more players are also in their 21-day return-to-practice windows and look ready to go: outside linebacker Marist Liufau, who’s been out with a forearm injury, and safety P.J. Locke, dealing with a foot issue. Their return could be a much-needed boost for the defense. Meanwhile, several other Cowboys are still in a limited capacity. Defensive back Caleb Downs (ankle) and wide receiver George Pickens (shoulder/hamstring) were both limited again Thursday. Pickens played only 41 of 68 offensive snaps on Monday night, while Downs saw action on 56 of 66 defensive snaps. Defensive tackle Quinnen Williams was also limited, playing 38 offensive snaps Monday, which is… interesting for a DT, but we’ll take the numbers as they come. Offensive tackle Drew Shelton (hamstring) also remains a limited participant. Unfortunately, wide receiver KaVontae Turpin (ribs) and linebacker Dee Winters (calf) both stayed out of practice entirely.
This slew of injuries, especially the new ones, puts some serious pressure on the Cowboys as the regular season grinds on. Getting guys back like Bullard, Liufau, and Locke is huge, but adding new question marks like Schoonmaker means the team’s depth and resilience will truly be tested in the coming weeks. Dallas needs to get healthy fast to keep its season on track.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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