The Dallas Cowboys are coming off a bye week, hoping to regroup as they prepare to face the San Francisco 49ers, a team that has had their number in recent matchups.
While the 49ers have been a formidable opponent, their current situation presents an opportunity for the Cowboys. Star running back Christian McCaffrey’s status is uncertain, and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk left their recent loss to the Kansas City Chiefs with an injury. San Francisco’s struggles have left them below .500, a far cry from their past dominance.
Despite these factors, the Cowboys must focus on their own performance, especially the availability of key players like pass rusher Micah Parsons. Following a media appearance on Monday, Parsons indicated that his status for Sunday night remains uncertain. He has missed the last two games due to a high ankle sprain sustained in Week 4 against the New York Giants, marking the first time in his career he has missed games due to injury.
We talked with Micah Parsons today. He said his status for Sunday against San Francisco is “up in the air.”
He added that the decision is more than just him: it’s the training staff and the coaches, as well. They all want him to be ready to be his most explosive self.
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) October 21, 2024
While Parsons is eligible to return, the Cowboys are without other critical pass rushers, including DeMarcus Lawrence, Marshawn Kneeland, and Sam Williams, who are all on injured reserve. As the best pass rusher on the team, Parsons’ return could significantly bolster the Cowboys’ defense.
There’s speculation that the Cowboys might have intentionally rested Parsons during the bye week, aiming for his return specifically for this critical game. While the Cowboys are struggling, they recognize that the season is long, and ensuring Parsons is healthy for the entirety of it is paramount, even if it means delaying his return against a rival that has historically outperformed them.
As the week progresses, all eyes will be on Parsons and his potential impact on the Cowboys’ chances to secure a much-needed victory against the 49ers.
