Cowboys Receive Mostly Positive Injury Outlook Entering Week 1

The Dallas Cowboys are entering the 2026 regular season with a mostly healthy roster, but several players remain worth monitoring before their Week 1 matchup against the New York Giants.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Bullard and offensive lineman Ajani Cornelius working through injuries that could affect their availability for the season opener. Linebacker Marist Liufau and cornerback Devin Moore will begin the year on injured reserve but are eligible to return later in the season.

Considering the injury problems that can develop during training camp and the preseason, Dallas has reason to feel encouraged about its overall health entering game week.

Jonathan Bullard continues injury recovery

Bullard has missed significant time due to an abdominal and groin injury. The veteran defensive tackle was spotted working with the Cowboys’ rehabilitation group on Sept. 1, which suggests he is making progress.

Dallas did not place Bullard on injured reserve, leaving open the possibility that he could play against the Giants. However, his extended absence may require the Cowboys to give him additional time before place him into the defensive line rotation.

The Cowboys signed Bullard during the offseason to strengthen a run defense that allowed the 10th-most rushing yards per game in the NFL last season. His experiecne and ability to occupy blockers could help a defensive front that underwent several changes.

If Bullard is unavailable, Dallas may need to rely more heavily on Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark and its other defensive linemen.

Ajani Cornelius could provide valuable offensive line depth

Cornelius was absent from practice as recently as Sept. 2, but he also participated in rehabilitation work one day earlier. His progress throughout game week will likely determine whether he is available for the opener.

The rookie impressed the Cowboys during training camp after receiving snaps at guard. He earned a reserve offensive line position over Nick Leverett and Trevor Keegan.

Cornelius’ versatility increases his value because he also has experience playing offensive tackle. With Broderick Jones and Terence Steele competing at right tackle, having another lineman capable of playing multiple positions would give Dallas additional flexibility.

Even if Cornelius does not start, his potential absence could leave the Cowboys with less experienced depth behind their starting offensive line.

Liufau and Moore will miss at least four games

Dallas placed Liufau and Moore on injured reserve during final roster cuts, but both players received designations to return. That means they must miss at least the first four games before becoming eligible for activation.

Liufau suffered a fractured forearm during the Cowboys’ preseason finale and required surgery. Although he faced an uncertain roster situation after transitioning to edge rusher, his ability to play both inside and outside linebacker could make him useful in defensive coordinator Christian Parker’s scheme once healthy.

Moore is recovering from a hip injury after previously missing time during training camp with a groin issue. The rookie cornerback already entered the NFL with injury concerns following an uneven college career.

The Cowboys should receive clearer updates on Bullard and Cornelius once the official Week 1 injury reports are released. For now, Dallas is approaching the opener with two active-roster injuries to monitor and two young defenders beginning the season on the sideline.

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