In a surprising twist, the Dallas Cowboys have opted not to place quarterback Dak Prescott on injured reserve, despite earlier statements suggesting the move was imminent. Prescott’s hamstring injury was expected to sideline him for several weeks, with the team initially planning to use the IR designation to free up a roster spot and give him time to fully recover. If the Cowboys had placed Prescott on injured reserve now, the earliest he could return would be December 15.
The sudden change of course, however, hints at a more optimistic outlook for Prescott’s recovery. By avoiding the injured reserve designation, the Cowboys leave the door open for a quicker return, potentially in less than four games. It’s a high-risk, high-reward move that suggests either a faster-than-expected recovery or a strategic gamble by the coaching staff, keeping their options open as the team battles through a critical part of the season.
The decision raises several questions about Prescott’s health status and the team’s confidence in their backup quarterbacks. It also reflects the urgency the Cowboys feel to salvage their season, currently hanging in the balance at 3-5. The choice not to place Prescott on IR could signal their hope that he might return sooner and help stabilize a struggling offense that has faltered in his absence.
