Cowboys offensive lineman Matt Waletzko suffers likely season-ending injury

Left tackle has been a whirlwind of a position for the Cowboys this season, having multiple faces competing for the starting job. Tyler Smith has settled in at the spot, with Matt Waletzko serving as the backup. However, after Thursday’s practice, Dallas may have to find a new, suitable No. 2 LT.

Waletzko is expected to miss the remainder of the season according to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News. The rookie out of North Dakota suffered a left shoulder subluxation on Thursday and it’s the third occurrence this season alone. Surgery will be required and Waletzko will not be back on the field in 2022.

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“Cowboys backup LT Matt Waletzko suffered a left shoulder subluxation in practice today for the third time in a year, two people familiar with situation said,” Gehlken said via Twitter. “Rookie needs surgery and is expected to miss rest of season.”

This is not the first left tackle injury Dallas has suffered this season. Former All-Pro Tyron Smith is not expected to be back on the field for quite some time. Even then, Tyler Smith has performed well as a rookie protecting the blindside. There’s no promise the veteran gets his spot back.

Jason Peters can possibly factor into the equation as well. Although, he has been playing guard for Dallas since signing.

Nonetheless, head coach Mike McCarthy will still have options at left tackle going forward. Losing Waletzko will hurt depth as the rookie looks to rehab his left shoulder.

Dallas Cowboys release Thursday injury report

The Dallas Cowboys have released its Thursday injury report ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Detroit Lions.

Two moves were made across Dallas’ report. Standout wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was a full participant in Thursday’s practice after being limited Wednesday. Offensive tackle Matt Waletzko was added to the report as well, practicing in a limited capacity Thursday.

Here is the full injury report:

Full Participation — QB Dak Prescott (Right Thumb), DT Quinton Bohanna (Shoulder), DT Neville Gallimore (Wrist), LB Devin Harper (Achilles), TE Dalton Schultz (Knee), T Jason Peters (Chest), WR CeeDee Lamb (Hip)

Limited Participation — T Matt Waletzko (Shoulder)