The Dallas Cowboys are still in first place in the NFC East at 7-4, but they've lost back-to-back games and three of their last four contests. When they play the New Orleans Saints in Week 13 on "Thursday Night Football," they should be close to full strength.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Amari Cooper will play against the Saints. He will practice today.
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) November 30, 2021
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said DeMarcus Lawrence will make his return against the Saints on Thursday. Neville Gallimore or Randy Gregory should be ready for the Washington game
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) November 30, 2021
Cooper tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the Cowboys' Week 11 tilt against the Kansas City Chiefs, and because he is unvaccinated, the wideout has missed the last two contests. The four-time Pro Bowler still ranks second on the team behind CeeDee Lamb in receiving yards (583) and receiving touchdowns (five), while placing third in targets (65) and receptions (44).
Lawrence has been on injured reserve since mid-September after breaking a bone in his foot. The two-time Pro Bowl defensive end led all Dallas players in tackles for loss (11), sacks (6.5) and forced fumbles (four) in 2020.
Jones discussed one more noteworthy item on Tuesday morning regarding one of the Cowboys star players and their status for Thursday's game. At the end of last week, it was reported that the team was considering limiting starting running back's Ezekiel Elliott's touches against the Saints in an effort to give him rest for the stretch run, and they were even thinking about sitting him on Thursday.
Jones said on Tuesday that that isn't the case.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said the team expects Ezekiel Elliott to have a serious load against New Orleans.
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) November 30, 2021
No rest for Zeke.@1053thefan
Elliott has gained 720 rushing yards and scored eight touchdowns on the ground via 160 carries in 11 games this season, while adding 38 receptions for 228 yards and one score through the air.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!