Young Cowboys Defenders Uncertain For Saturday

Multiple Dallas Cowboys young defensive players, including Viliami Fehoko Jr., Nahshon Wright, and Malik Jefferson, are uncertain for Saturday's preseason action against the Seattle Seahawks.

A fourth-round defensive end, Fehoko was a late scratch for the team’s first preseason game, a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, 28-23. Derailed by a shoulder injury, Fehoko may be forced to wait another week before seeing live game reps.

“I hope so,” said head coach Mike McCarthy, speaking to the rookie’s return. “I hope to get him back.”

The team hopes additional practices this week will provide clarity on Fehoko’s status.

Wright, a cornerback who started on Saturday, has a more pessimistic projection. Wright was seen in a walking boot on his right foot Saturday. Though it was billed as precautionary, McCarthy feels Wright is “hard-pressed” to play this weekend in Seattle.

DaRon Bland and Kelvin Joseph are expected to occupy most of Wright’s snaps. Rookie Eric Scott Jr. may also see additional playing time.

Lastly, linebacker Malik Jefferson will look to return after suffering a foot injury in the second half of last week’s game. Competing for a spot behind Cowboys starter Leighton Vander Esch on the depth chart, Jefferson is hoping to contribute to both defense and special teams. If he can see the practice field this week, he may be healthy enough to see playing time on Saturday.

Dallas is working through two injury issues on offense with running back Ronald Jones (groin) and offensive lineman Chuma Edoga (knee).

The preseason is a crucial time for roster-crunching decisions that ultimately shape the bottom half of the depth chart. Getting healthy, quality snaps is vital for the front office and coaching staff to make sound decisions before the Week 1 opener against the New York Giants.

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