The Dallas Cowboys are set to host a playoff game following their significant victory over the Washington Commanders, but there are concerns about player health. Similar challenges are being faced by every NFL team in the playoff race, and for the Cowboys, having cornerback Stephon Gilmore on the field is crucial.
Despite coping well with the absence of CB Trevon Diggs with Gilmore leading the secondary, the veteran sustained a shoulder injury during the game against Washington. Fortunately, according to Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, Gilmore’s injury is not as severe as initially feared.
“Stephon Gilmore avoided a more serious injury, with no damage to his rotator cuff. There is optimism that he will be ready for Sunday’s game and will wear a harness to provide additional support for his right shoulder,” reported ESPN’s Todd Archer on January 8. McCarthy expressed relief, saying, “It was better than we anticipated.”
In his inaugural season with the Cowboys, Gilmore has been a dependable player. While he may not be operating at full capacity in Sunday’s matchup against the Green Bay Packers, the fact that he will be available is a significant positive for the Cowboys. Despite other players needing careful monitoring (details below), the team can now prepare with the assurance that Gilmore will be on the field.
Gilmore’s First Year in Dallas
When the Cowboys brought in the 32-year-old cornerback, it appeared to be a strategic move primarily for support rather than reliance. The plan was for Gilmore to start, but not to carry the same burden as Diggs. However, when Diggs suffered an early-season injury, Gilmore stepped up and demonstrated that he remains a top-tier cornerback in the league.
Throughout all 17 games, Gilmore started and showcased his skills, tallying 13 passes defended and securing two interceptions. According to Pro Football Reference, he also achieved a career high in combined tackles with 68.
In terms of defensive metrics, Gilmore allowed an 82.4 QB rating when targeted, along with a completion percentage of 54.4%. While there are instances where his age may have impacted his speed, his wealth of experience proves to be a valuable asset.
Looking ahead, the Cowboys face the decision of how to handle Gilmore’s future. Acquired through a trade in the previous offseason, he is set to become a free agent in the spring. Gilmore’s impressive performance suggests he has earned another year or two with Dallas, but the team’s ultimate decision remains uncertain.
Cowboys Injury Absences Against Commanders
In the crucial win that secured the division against Washington, the Cowboys faced the challenge of being without several key players. Guards Tyler Smith and Zack Martin, along with defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, were absent in the 38-10 victory.
Hankins had been sidelined for the last three games of the season due to ankle and knee injuries, but the hope is that the time off will provide him an opportunity to return for the playoffs. On the other hand, Martin, who was initially expected to play against Washington, was unable to participate due to illness.
As for Smith, a foot injury kept him out of the matchup against the Commanders, and it is anticipated to limit his participation in practice this week. The absence of either starting guard was a notable concern heading into Week 18.
While Martin is expected to make a comeback against the Packers, Smith’s status remains uncertain and is worth monitoring. The second-year player has been a standout on the offensive line since joining Dallas as a first-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft.