The Dallas Cowboys’ edge rush depth has taken a significant hit after their Week 4 victory, as both DeMarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons were forced out of the game with injuries.

These losses could leave the Cowboys’ defensive front compromised for an extended period, raising concerns about their ability to maintain pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

DeMarcus Lawrence’s Lisfranc Injury

DeMarcus Lawrence, one of the cornerstones of Dallas’ defense, sustained a Lisfranc injury during the game. According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, the injury did not result in bone displacement, which spares Lawrence from requiring surgery. Despite this positive outcome, Lawrence is expected to be sidelined for a significant recovery period, estimated to range between four and eight weeks.

The Cowboys are considering placing Lawrence on injured reserve (IR), a move that would guarantee at least a four-week absence. As the team leader with three sacks this season, Lawrence’s absence will be keenly felt. His long-term availability will be crucial, as his return could bolster the Cowboys’ defensive efforts during the latter stages of the season.

Micah Parsons’ Uncertain Timeline

While Lawrence’s situation is concerning, Micah Parsons’ injury adds another layer of uncertainty. Parsons, a key player in Dallas’ defense, also exited the Week 4 game. His recovery timeline remains unclear, but even a brief absence would be significant for the Cowboys. With Parsons sidelined, the Cowboys lose one of their most dynamic and versatile defenders, further stressing the team’s pass-rushing capabilities.

Filling the Void: In-House Options and Challenges

The Cowboys are now left scrambling to cover for both Lawrence and Parsons. The team will likely rely on Chauncey Golston and Marshawn Kneeland to take on larger roles in the defense moving forward, particularly with Sam Williams already out for the season. These players will face immense pressure to step up in the absence of Dallas’ star edge rushers.

Despite speculation, the Cowboys are reportedly not pursuing outside help in the form of veteran edge rushers. Although Haason Reddick, currently holding out with the New York Jets, was mentioned as a potential trade target, Dallas appears content to work with its in-house talent to weather this storm.

Looking Ahead

The Cowboys’ defense showed resilience in their Thursday night win against the New York Giants, but the injuries to Lawrence and Parsons create significant challenges moving forward. Lawrence’s potential stint on IR and Parsons’ uncertain status leave major gaps in the Cowboys’ ability to pressure opposing offenses.

Lawrence’s future with the team is also in focus, as the veteran edge rusher will enter free agency at the end of this season. How Dallas manages his injury and the looming contract negotiations with Parsons could shape the team’s defensive structure for years to come. Lawrence, who has spent his entire 11-year career with the Cowboys, will need to recover quickly to maintain his market value, but his leadership and on-field contributions will be missed in the interim.

As the Cowboys navigate these injury setbacks, their defense will be tested in the coming weeks. How effectively they adapt to the loss of their two most prominent pass rushers could determine their success as the season progresses.