Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence suffered a broken foot during practice on Wednesday, according to a report from Dallas TV station WFAA.
The two-time Pro Bowler and star defenseman is out indefinitely following his injury. His earliest return is six to eight weeks, the NFL Network reported.
#Cowboys DE DeMarcus Lawrence suffered a broken foot in practice, source said (as @JoeTrahan reported). Out indefinitely.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 15, 2021
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This isn’t the first time Lawrence has suffered this injury. During his rookie season in 2014, Lawrence broke his foot during training camp and he only got to play seven games that season.
Lawrence is known as one of the best rushers in the league, especially during the 2017 and '18 seasons in which he combined for 25 sacks. He combined for 11.5 sacks in 2019 and '20. His $105 million contract with the Cowboys is through 2023.
With Lawrence out for the foreseeable future, Tarell Basham, Dorance Armstrong and Bradlee Anae are predicted to see more action. Lawrence’s absence is just another Cowboy loss so far this season. They have had their fair share of hardships.
From @NFLTotalAccess: The #Cowboys lost their best defender for about two months, as Demarcus Lawrence goes down with a broken foot in practice. pic.twitter.com/KYoU6PDA3S
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 15, 2021
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After the Cowboys’ loss to the reigning Super Bowl champion Buccaneers on Thursday, starting tackle La’el Collins was suspended five games due to violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy; wide receiver Michael Gallup was placed on the IR with a calf injury (he’s not expected to return until October at the earliest); and defensive end Randy Gregory tested positive for COVID-19.
Gregory’s status for Sunday is unknown now. He has the potential to play if he presents two negative tests since he is vaccinated and asymptomatic. As of now, the Cowboys are down two defensive ends heading into their Week 2 matchup against the Chargers.
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The Cowboys had a good Week 1 defensive performance, forcing four turnovers against Tom Brady and the defending Super Bowl champion Buccaneers
The Cowboys will take on the Chargers Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET as they look to get their first 2021 victory.