The Dallas Cowboys are set to travel over to MetLife Stadium as they play the New York Jets in Week 5. Injury reports have been flying out ahead of the matchup, and the latest points to rookie running back Jaydon Blue finally making his long-awaited NFL debut.
Dallas Cowboys reporter Tommy Yarrish is reporting that veteran RB Miles Sanders (knee/ankle) wasn't present at practice during the media's viewing session on Thursday. Back-to-back absences is never good for anyone's shot at suiting up, and Blue's latest social media post seemingly hints that he'll be handed the ball if Sanders can't suit up.
"Uh ohhh,"Blue posted on Tuesday morning, using two eye emojis potentially implying something big is looming over the horizon.
Jaydon Blue Looks Like He Could Make NFL Debut in Week 5
Blue has been a healthy scratch through the first four weeks, but that may change in a few days. Sanders left the Packers game with an ankle injury, and not practicing throughout the week isn't a positive sign.
Javonte Williams has been a great free agency addition, as he ranks sixth in the NFL in rushing yards (312) and tied for second in rushing touchdowns (4) entering Week 5. He will be the workhorse once again, but when they need to give him a rest, Blue could be asked to step up.
Dallas used the 149th overall pick on Blue this past April, and he had flashes this offseason. He suffered ankle and heel injuries during the preseason that slowed down his progression a bit. Now that he's fully healthy, he may finally get the chance to show what he can do in Week 5.
Blue was a force during his collegiate career, amassing 1,161 rushing yards, 503 receiving yards, and 18 total touchdowns. While fans should have tempered expectations, this could be the perfect opponent to go up against. New York is 25th in the NFL in run defense (130.5) with 4.1 yards per carry and four rushing touchdowns allowed.
The Jets struggled to tackle effectively in the open field. Per Pro Football Focus, New York has a 37.5 tackling grade, which is the second-worst among teams in the NFL, and has a whopping 45 missed tackles. The Jets will also be without top linebacker Quincy Williams (shoulder) in this contest, and that's better news for a potent Dallas offense.
The odds of Blue making his NFL debut are trending in the right direction, and Sanders' next injury report will likely determine whether that happens or not in Week 5.