The Dallas Cowboys could be without a key piece of their defense when they return to action Thursday night against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer said linebacker DeMarvion Overshown is a “long shot” to play in the matchup, according to The Athletic’s Jon Machota. Overshown has missed the team’s first two practices of the short week.
The update leaves Dallas preparing for another game without one of its important defensive contributors.
Overshown has dealt with a hamstring injury since the season opener against the New York Giants. With only a few days between games, the Cowboys appear unwilling to rush him back before he is ready.
That puts additional responsibility on the rest of Dallas’ linebacker group. Jaishawn Barham and Shemar James have been among the players asked to take on larger roles while Overshown remains sidelined.
The Cowboys are also dealing with other injury concerns. Cornerback Cobie Durant and offensive tackle Drew Shelton were among the players who remained out of practice with hamstring issues, further testing Dallas’ depth.
Chris Jones-Imagn Images
Dallas enters Thursday night’s matchup at 2-2 after a 34-30 victory over the Houston Texans. The Cowboys will now have to quickly shift their attention to a Buccaneers team searching for its first win of the season.
Without Overshown, communication and discipline will become even more important against Tampa Bay. Dallas cannot afford repeated defensive breakdowns with several players already dealing with injuries.
The Cowboys have an opportunity to move above .500 under the prime-time spotlight, but they may have to do it with a defense that is still searching for answers.
ALSO SEE:
- Poll: Which 4-0 Team Has the Best Chance to Go Undefeated?
- 2027 NFL Draft Order: Updated 1st-Round Picks Heading into Week 5
