The upcoming NFL season already presents the first major challenge for the Dallas Cowboys, who are aiming to return to the spotlight after several years with disappointing results. Dak Prescott, following an intense weekend at training camp, will be without one of his offensive reinforcements due to a serious injury.
Robert Jones, who arrived from the Miami Dolphins this offseason, fractured one of the bones in his neck and is expected to be sidelined for at least two to three months.
The news was confirmed by NFL insider Adam Schefter, who, through his official X (formerly Twitter) account, provided more details regarding this significant loss for Brian Schottenheimerâs team ahead of Week 1.
âSources: Cowboys guard Rob Jones, who has been working with the starting unit during the early part of training camp, broke a bone in his neck during Sundayâs practice and now is expected to miss 2-3 months, per @toddarcher and me,â the insider reported via @AdamSchefter.
Robert Jones #65 of the Miami Dolphins takes the field before playing the Arizona Cardinals at Hard Rock Stadium on October 27, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Although there were no certainties regarding his starting role on the team, this setback at the start of the season now leaves Jones behind his teammates, at least for the first few weeks of competition.
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Alternatives to replace Jones
Jonesâ injury presents a new puzzle for the Cowboysâ coach, who will need to decide on alternative options to fill his spot when the team kicks off its participation in this season.
At the guard position, Schottenheimer has three players at his disposal to step onto the field starting in Week 1. They are: T.J. Bass, Tyler Booker, and finally, Saahdiq Charles.
Injuries: The Cowboysâ kryptonite
While multiple factors can undoubtedly affect a teamâs performance in the NFL, injuries are perhaps the most decisive. The Cowboys, a team that has struggled to find its way for quite some time, are one of the franchises that has suffered the most, many of them severe.
Last year, perhaps the most notable injury was that of Dak Prescott, the undisputed leader of Americaâs Team for several years, who saw limited playing time. This year, the story doesnât seem to be turning around, and theyâll have to deal with this curse once again.
The Cowboysâ initial strides
Competing in the NFC East wonât be easy, so the Cowboys must start on the right foot and truly show what theyâre made of this season.
- @ Philadelphia Eagles, September 4th
- vs New York Giants, September 14th
- @ Chicago Bears, September 21st
- vs Green Bay Packers, September 28th
- @ New York Jets, October 5th
