Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis ready to make season debut: '100 percent'

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis hasn’t been on the team’s injury report this week, suggesting the defender is finally ready to make his way back onto the field. Head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters this week that Lewis is “very close” to his return after suffering a Lisfranc injury to his foot last season in October.

The cornerback addressed his chances of playing on Sunday afternoon against the Jets, saying that he’s feeling the best he’s felt in his recovery so far.

“I think it’s 100 percent. 100 percent on me playing,” Lewis said, via Calvin Watkins. “It’s not my call.”

A former third-round pick out of Michigan, Lewis has started 30 of the 37 games he appeared in over the past three seasons. He posted career highs with three interceptions, 11 passes defended and 61 tackles in 2021 to go along with 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.

Last season, he had 26 tackles, with one sack, and one interception.

Dan Quinn excited for Lewis’ return

Defensive coordinator Quinn couldn’t be more excited to get Lewis back in action.

“We’re so excited, because for those of you that don’t know Jourdan, he is an absolute warrior,” Quinn said last month, via DallasCowboys.com. “He’s one of our very best competitors for those of you that have been around him and watched him play. It’s no surprise that a person like that attacked his rehab portion like he did, because this is a really serious injury that Jourdan had.

“I’m not surprised going through the offseason, early in the mornings seeing him in the weight rooms and doing his stuff. It’ll be a really cool moment when he’s able to get back on the field with these guys. Every single person in that locker room knows he is a true warrior and he’s a true part of that in a big way.”

Cowboys add Zack Martin to injury report

Right guard Zack Martin appeared on the injury report for the first time on Thursday with a groin injury. He practiced in a limited fashion. Martin made his triumphant return to the team at the end of training camp after executing a successful holdout for more money over the next two seasons.

Veteran wideout Brandin Cooks (knee) was a new addition to the list of injured Cowboys on Wednesday. On Thursday, reports suggested the former Texans star has a sprained MCL, throwing his status for Sunday into question. He joined guard Tyler Smith (hamstring) for rehab work during practice. On 105.3 The Fan on Friday, Jerry Jones said that Cooks wouldn’t need practice reps to play on Sunday, making him a game-time decision.

Meanwhile, left tackle Tyron Smith (ankle) and safety Donovan Wilson (calf) are still on the injury report. However, Wilson was able to don pads for the first time since last season, signaling that he could be just days away from a return to play.