Mike McCarthy updates injury status of Randy Gregory for Cowboys vs. Panthers

The Dallas Cowboys got some positive news on the injury front as they prepare for a crucial NFC test vs. the Carolina Panthers.

According to John Machota of The Athletic, Mike McCarthy said he “fully expects” Cowboys DE Randy Gregory (knee) to play Sunday. “This is something he’s had in the past, so we’re just being smart with it.”

This is a significant development for a Dallas Cowboys defensive unit that has been decimated with injuries, but has still found a way to thrive through adversity under defensive coordinator Dan Quinn.

Gregory was listed on Thursday’s official injury report, and while it’s unclear how many snaps the elite-level pass rusher will see on Sunday, Dallas Cowboys fans can breathe a sigh of relief.

LB Keanu Neal and DE Bradlee Anae remain on the Reserve/COVID-19 list. No new players have been added to the list.

Dallas Cowboys vs. Carolina Panthers injury report

On Thursday, both teams released their official injury report ahead of Sunday’s matchup.

Did Not Practice – Cowboys: DE Randy Gregory (Knee), DE Dorance Armstrong (Ankle), T Ty Nsekhe (Illness), DE Carlos Watkins (Knee), S Donovan Wilson (Groin), Tony Pollard (Non-injury related). 

Dallas’ injury situation is unclear with safety Donovan Wilson and defensive lineman Carlos Watkins. With injuries hampering their defense, the status of their starters will be important to monitor as they prepare for Sunday. Rookie Micah Parsons worked at linebacker on Thursday. Linebacker Keanu Neal and defensive end Bradlee Anae remain on the Dallas Cowboys’ COVID-19 list.

The Panthers have several key players, most notably Christian McCaffrey who are listed.

Did Not Practice – Panthers: RB Christian McCaffrey (Hamstring), DT Phil Hoskins (Not injury-related)

With Panthers head coach Matt Rhule saying previously that McCaffrey’s injury could sideline him for up to four weeks, the running back is likely to remain on the Did Not Practice designation until new information comes out about his injury. McCaffrey’s injury came early against the Houston Texans on Thursday night.

Limited Participation – Panthers: DE Yetur Gross-Matos (Ankle), G John Miller (Shoulder)

Right guard John Miller was restricted to limited participation as he works to be available against the Dallas Cowboys. Miller suffered his injury against the Texans on Thursday but played 93% of snaps in that game despite it. Pat Elflein would likely be his replacement as he took the majority of snaps in Miller’s place during week 1 when he was unavailable.

Full Participation – Panthers: WR Terrace Marshall Jr. (Thumb), CB CJ Henderson (Groin), T Cameron Erving (Knee), LB Shaq Thompson (Back).

These two teams have both been surprising NFC contenders as the NFL season reaches October. Sunday’s matchup should be a great one.