Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant will miss the team’s third preseason game after suffering a concussion during a practice Monday.
Though Bryant wasn’t expected to play in the Cowboys’ preseason finale, he was supposed to play a significant amount of time in the team’s third preseason game, which is Thursday against the Seattle Seahawks. Dallas, like many teams, treats the third preseason game as a dress rehearsal for the regular season.
BREAKING @DezBryant sustained a concussion in practice on Mon. (Joining T. Crawford). Both OUT for #Cowboys at #Seahawks @1053thefan
— fishsports ✭ (@fishsports) August 23, 2016
Despite Bryant missing the preseason, he and others have cautioned fans not to worry about his status for the regular season.
I promise I'm ok Cowboy nation #x..
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) August 23, 2016
Among those not concerned is Jerry Jones. During a radio appearance in Dallas, Jones said he is being monitored and and the concussions shouldn’t impact them going forward.
But despite Bryant and Jones’ optimism, there is probably some cause for concern with the Cowboys. Rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott has yet to play in the preseason, though some are reporting that he will play Thursday.
On the defensive side of the ball, Dallas is a mess. Cowboys defensive end Tyrone Crawford is also out with a concussion. Aside from that, Dallas’ defense has holes due to a number of suspensions. The list includes linebacker Rolando McClain and defensive ends Randy Gregory and DeMarcus Lawrence.
This latest injury to Bryant is one of a few during his time in the NFL. The Oklahoma State graduate missed nine games in 2015 due to multiple foot surgeries. Bryant’s apparent injury issues have caused some team executives to encourage Bryant to get in better shape to avoid future injuries.
As you can see, the Cowboys face a number of absences heading into the regular season. Dallas fans have to hope Bryant and Jones are telling the truth and that No. 88 is on the field when the Cowboys open the season.
