Dallas Cowboys injury updates: Good news for LVE, Hankins and more
By Reid Hanson
In the wake of the tragic incident which happened to Damar Hamlin yesterday it’s hard to talk football, let alone injury updates to other players. But while news of his current condition is at a standstill, we take a moment to shift to some Dallas Cowboys housekeeping as they embark on the final week of the regular season.
The Dallas Cowboys stand 12-4 and are within striking distance of the NFC east crown. With a win and a little help, the Cowboys could still win the division so things are still very real for the majority of the division.
The Dallas Cowboys give some optimistic injury updates for Leighton Vander Esch and Johnathan Hankins
late in the season the Dallas Cowboys run defense took major hit when both Johnathan Hankins and Leighton Vander Esch suffered mid-game injuries. At first, both sounded severe enough that they could end the season for each.
But further evaluation offered a much friendlier timetable and the postseason in the New Year became the new goal. Well, it appears we’re on track to meet that goal..
For those asking:
— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) January 2, 2023
Stephen Jones told @1053thefan the #Cowboys are "certainly" prepared to "welcome back" Johnathan Hankins for the start of the playoffs (along with LVE and likely Tyler Biadasz (TBD)).
According to Stephen Jones, Leighton Vander Esch and Johnathan Hankins are both on track to return. While it went unsaid, the general sentiment felt as if they could come back sooner if they had to but the playoffs are the clear goal and the better target for the sake of caution.
Hankins, a run-stuffing DT, and LVE, a do-it-all LB, are key players on the Cowboys defense. Both played starter snaps for their respective roles and both are leaders on the field and players who line up at the most critical moments.
The absence of LVE, specifically, has been felt in the LB ranks. The Dallas Cowboys have had to go deeper into their well and inexperienced players have been forced to learn some tough lessons on-the-job. Getting a smart veteran like LVE back into the fold to lead them should be extremely beneficial.
Tyler Biadasz is a little more of a gray area. His return sounds optimistic as well, but the high ankle sprain he suffered Thursday is still fresh and much more evaluation will be needed before his timeline gets solidified.
Sport DFW is looking for draft gurus to join our writing team!
Want your voice heard? Join the Sports Dallas Fort-Worth team!
Finally some good news on the local injury front, Hopefully health will be on the Cowboys side in Week 18 and without question all thoughts and prayers are with Damar Hamlin and his family as they navigate this difficult time.