FRISCO, Texas – Dallas Cowboys rookie defensive end Marshawn Kneeland has avoided a season-ending injury to his right knee; however, he will require surgery that may sideline him for four to six weeks, according to a source.
An MRI performed on Monday confirmed that the anterior cruciate ligament is intact, but an arthroscopic procedure will be necessary to address a meniscus tear. Had he torn his ACL, Kneeland would have been ruled out for the remainder of the season. If all goes well with his surgery and rehabilitation, he could make his return by mid-November after a stint on injured reserve.
Although this news is relatively reassuring, it will still affect the Cowboys’ defensive line, especially since Micah Parsons might miss another week due to a high left ankle sprain. Additionally, DeMarcus Lawrence is currently on injured reserve with a Lisfranc injury in his right foot, also targeting a mid-November return.
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Kneeland sustained his injury during the fourth defensive play in the Cowboys’ 20-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, while he was bringing down quarterback Justin Fields. He was assisted to the blue medical tent, later carted off to the locker room for further evaluation, and did not return to the game.
In place of Parsons and Lawrence, the Cowboys started Kneeland alongside Chauncey Golston, then shifted to Tyrus Wheat and Carl Lawson following Kneeland’s injury. Wheat and Lawson recorded a combined half sack and three quarterback hurries against the Steelers.
Post-game, coach Mike McCarthy mentioned they had prepared some linebackers for that position during the game, anticipating the possibility of another injury.
Lawson has been elevated from the practice squad for the last three games but will need to be added to the 53-man roster to be eligible for play. It is likely the Cowboys will seek to bolster the defensive end position, potentially adding another player to the practice squad now that Kneeland is out.
Injuries have plagued the defensive end group since training camp began. Sam Williams, forecasted to be the Cowboys’ third pass rusher behind Parsons and Lawrence, suffered a season-ending torn ACL in one of the early training sessions in Oxnard, California.
Cowboys’ Rookie Defensive End Marshawn Kneeland to Undergo Surgery, Expected to Miss 4-6 Weeks
Overview of Marshawn Kneeland’s Injury
The Dallas Cowboys’ rookie defensive end, Marshawn Kneeland, has been making waves on the field this season. However, it was reported on October 7, 2024, that Kneeland will undergo surgery following a recent injury. Thankfully, initial reports indicate that the injury is not season-ending, but he is expected to be sidelined for approximately 4-6 weeks.
Details About the Injury
- Type of Injury: Specific details about the nature of the injury have yet to be disclosed, but it is serious enough to require surgical intervention.
- Impact on the Team: Kneeland’s absence will be felt by the Cowboys’ defensive line, which relies on his athleticism and skill.
- Recovery Timeline: The expected recovery period of 4-6 weeks means he could return in time for crucial games later in the season.
Marshawn Kneeland’s Performance This Season
Prior to his injury, Marshawn Kneeland had shown promising performance metrics, showcasing his potential as a key player for the Cowboys. Here’s a brief look at his statistics:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Tackles | 15 |
| Sacks | 2 |
| Quarterback Hits | 5 |
The Importance of Defensive End Position
The defensive end position is critical in today’s NFL, with players like Kneeland expected to disrupt opposing offenses. The Cowboys rely heavily on their defensive line to set the tone for the game, and losing a player of Kneeland’s caliber is significant.
Recovery Process: What to Expect
Following surgery, Marshawn Kneeland will likely undergo a multi-phase recovery process, which typically includes:
- Post-Surgery Care: Initial recovery will focus on pain management and preventing infection.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy will be crucial in helping Kneeland regain strength and mobility.
- Gradual Return to Practice: Before returning to full gameplay, he will need to participate in limited practices.
Benefits of a Proper Recovery
A well-structured recovery protocol can lead to:
- Improved performance upon return
- Lower risk of re-injury
- Enhanced overall team performance as players return to full capacity
What This Means for the Cowboys
The Cowboys must adapt to the absence of Kneeland during this crucial stretch of the season. The coaching staff will look to other players on the roster to step up in his absence. Potential alternatives could include:
- Veteran Players: Experienced defensive ends who can provide leadership and skill.
- Practice Squad Elevations: Promising players from the practice squad may be called up to fill the gap.
Case Studies: Previous Injuries and Their Impact
In the past, several NFL teams have faced similar situations with key players, showcasing how injuries can reshape a season:
| Player | Injury Duration | Impact on Team |
|---|---|---|
| J.J. Watt | Season-Ending | Team struggled defensively, missed playoffs |
| Richard Sherman | 4-6 Weeks | Defensive adjustments led to mixed results |
First-Hand Experience: Other Players’ Recoveries
Players who have undergone similar surgeries often emphasize the importance of mental resilience during recovery:
“The road to recovery is tough, but staying focused on my goals helped me push through the challenges.” – Former NFL Defensive End
Final Thoughts
While the injury to Marshawn Kneeland is unfortunate, his expected return in 4-6 weeks offers hope for the Cowboys. As the team navigates the upcoming weeks, the focus will be on maintaining performance and preparing for his return. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Cowboys adapt to this development.
