5 Cowboys Most Likely to Be Inactive Against Cardinals on Sunday

The Cowboys head into Week 3 of the 2023 NFL season with a 2-0 record, solidifying themselves as one of the league's best teams. There's a good chance that momentum continues on Sunday when they take on the winless Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium.

Although the Cowboys have one of the best 53-man rosters in the NFL, only 48 players can suit up on any given Sunday. Mike McCarthy will decide in the coming days who will and won't play in what should be a relatively easy win against the Cardinals.

Here's an early prediction as to which five Dallas players will be inactive against Arizona in Week 3.

Projecting Cowboys Week 3 Inactives vs. Cardinals

1. Jalen Brooks

Drafted in the seventh round back in April, rookie wideout Jalen Brooks finally made his NFL debut in Week 2.

Unfortunately, the results left a lot to be desired. Brooks was an afterthought in the 15 offensive snaps he played, failing to see even a single target. He spent the rest of his time playing 13 special teams snaps without much to show for it either.

With Brandin Cooks likely suiting up this week, I don't see a reason why Brooks should play too. Dallas has options who are more talented than the 23-year-old, including fellow rookie WR Jalen Tolbert, who caught 3-of-4 passes thrown his way for 18 yards against the New York Jets.

Besides, Arizona has one of the worst run defenses in the league, so I expect the Cowboys' ground game to be the No. 1 priority. There is just no real use for Brooks even if he does suit up.

Unless more injuries strike between now and Sunday, don't expect to see Brooks at State Farm Stadium.