Jayron Kearse exits Cowboys stadium on crutches following loss

Football is a war of attrition, but the Cowboys are feeling horribly unlucky following Week 1.

First, Dallas lost star quarterback Dak Prescott to a thumb injury, which is expected to need surgery and keep him out until late October. Then, it was revealed that star safety Jayron Kearse is also dealing with an injury, reportedly leaving the stadium on crutches.

“Cowboys S Jayron Kearse, the team’s most versatile defensive back and Week 1 defensive captain, exited stadium on crutches following knee injury vs. Bucs,” tweeted Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News. “He’ll have MRI on Monday, person familiar with situation said. Dak Prescott not the only team leader injured tonight.”

Moreover, Kearse was nearly unable to go on Sunday after being listed on Dallas’ final injury report of the week with a neck injury that kept him out of practice. His injury appeared to not be bothering him throughout the game, but then he suffered the apparent knee injury that knocked him out of the game.

Although the Dallas offense struggled in a major way against the Buccaneers defense, scoring just three points through the first three quarters, the Cowboys’ defense stepped up to the challenge for most of the night. Prior to Kearse’s injury, the Cowboys had allowed just 12 points despite continued deep drives and good field position for Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay offense.

Hopefully the crutches are just a precaution for Jayron Kearse, as the the Cowboys will need the former Clemson star if Dak Prescott misses as much time as theorized.

Sources: Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott to miss 6-8 week following surgery

Moreover, hearts sank when Dak Prescott left the field, as Dallas faithful immediately began hoping for the best. However, Todd Archer of ESPN delivered some demoralizing news that could mean the end of the Cowboys’ season before it even begins.

“Dak Prescott is expected to have surgery Monday on a right thumb injury and miss 6-8 weeks, according to multiple sources,” tweeted Archer. “He will meet with the team’s hand specialist on Monday, but sources said he will have a pin and plate inserted to stabilize the joint.”

Additionally, Archer added that Prescott will be placed on injured reserve, and may not be able to return until November. 

“He will likely be placed on injured reserve but will be eligible to return later in the year,” added Archer. “If he follows the 6-8 week timeframe, he could return as soon as Oct. 30 vs. Chicago or Nov. 13 at Green Bay following the bye.”

Moreover, It wasn’t a great performance for Prescott prior to his injury. The quarterback completed less than half of his passes, going 14-of-29 for just 134 yards and an interception. Dallas failed to score a touchdown all evening and dropped the game to Tampa Bay by a score of 19-3.