DeMarcus Lawrence suffers broken foot, update on return

Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence suffered a broken foot in practice on Wednesday, the star pass rusher could return this season, reports NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

“DeMarcus Lawrence broke the fifth-metatarsal in his foot and will need surgery, source said,” Rapoport said. “If all goes well, he should be back in November. A big loss, but not season-ending.”

Though the Cowboys defense did not record a sack in their season-opening loss to Tampa Bay, DeMarcus Lawrence recorded five tackles against the reigning Super Bowl Champions.

DeMarcus Lawrence is in his eighth NFL season. In his career, Lawrence has recorded 305 tackles and 45.5 sacks. Lawrence’s best season came in 2017, recording 58 tackles and 14.5 sacks. In his career, Lawrence has earned two Pro Bowl invitations in 2017 and 2018. Lawrence earned a second-team All-Pro selection in 2017.

DeMarcus Lawrence’s injury is more unfortunate news for the Cowboys who lost lost wide receiver Michael Gallup and offensive tackle La’El Collins for an extended period. Gallup was placed on injured reserve after suffering a calf injury in the season opener. Collins was suspended for five games after violations of the league’s substance-abuse policy.

“Collins has been tested roughly 10 times a month over the past 18 months, and, according to sources, has not tested positive for marijuana once between Oct. 21, 2020 and Aug. 11, 2021,” reported CBS Sports. “However, Collins has been cited seven times for ‘failure to appear’ for testing, although often with mitigating circumstances, according to sources.”

Starting defensive end Randy Gregory will likely miss the Cowboys week two matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers after testing positive for COVID-19

“Randy Gregory tested positive for COVID-19, but he is asymptomatic, source said,” Dallas Morning News’ Michael Gehlken said. “Needs to produce two consecutive negative tests, 24 hours apart, while being asymptomatic in order to gain clearance. A chance. Gregory was team’s Week 1 defensive captain vs. Buccaneers.”

In a batch of good news for the Cowboys this week, perennial All-Pro guard Zack Martin is back with the team following his absence after testing positive with COVID-19. 

“Cowboys activating All-Pro RG Zack Martin and backup G/T Brandon Knight from Reserve/COVID-19,” reported Gehlken. “Both back in building today. To make room, DE Randy Gregory added to Reserve/COVID-19, putting his Sunday status vs. Chargers in question. WR Michael Gallup (calf) to injured reserve.”