Jake Ferguson Provides Encouraging Injury Update Ahead of Week 2

The Dallas Cowboys dodged a bullet earlier this week about the health of starting tight end Jake Ferguson. The third-year tight end exited the Cowboys’ Week 1 win over the Cleveland Browns in the third quarter with a left knee injury. 

On Monday, it was reported that Ferguson suffered an MCL sprain, which is the best-case scenario for all parties involved. The initial reporting said Ferguson’s injury is not serious and he could only miss a minimal amount of time.

However, on Tuesday, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones left the door open for the 25-year-old tight end to potentially play against the New Orleans Saints this weekend.

Ferguson spoke to reporters on Wednesday about his injury and gave an optimistic update that should excite Dallas fans.

According to Jon Machota of The Athletic, the Cowboys starting tight end said the pain in his knee injury was a 10 on Sunday. However, his pain level is at a 0 on Wednesday. Ferguson added that he thought he had an ACL injury.

If Ferguson can practice tomorrow and Friday, maybe there’s a chance the starting tight end plays on Sunday against the Saints. However, the Cowboys shouldn’t like they need to rush back Ferguson as this is a prime opportunity for second-year tight end Luke Schoonmaker to step up.

Schoonmaker had a disappointing rookie campaign in 2023 as he only had eight receptions (15 targets) for 65 yards and two touchdowns. The former second-round pick didn’t register a catch in Week 1 against the Browns but still played 19 offensive and 13 special teams snaps.

That said, Schoonmaker is a significant downgrade on paper from Ferguson. However, the heavily favored Cowboys (-298 on DraftKings Sportsbook) should still handle business with or without Ferguson.

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