The Dallas Cowboys surrendered 394 yards in their season-opening loss to the New York Giants, and two defensive players may miss the next two games. Coach Brian Schottenheimer said linebacker DeMarvion Overshown is expected to be out one to two weeks with a hamstring strain, with the team hoping for an absence of about two weeks. The injury ended his game after halftime.
Overshown also relays defensive communication between the coaches and players.
Safety Malik Hooker will undergo surgery for a broken forearm. Dallas does not intend to put him on injured reserve, which would keep him out for a minimum of four games. P.J. Locke is expected to fill Hooker’s role in passing-down packages. Caleb Downs will keep splitting his work between safety and the slot in those situations.
Jaishawn Barham spent most of the Giants game alongside Dee Winters, and Shemar James had a smaller role. Schottenheimer called Winters the most experienced option and mentioned practice-squad elevations, including Curtis Robinson and Justin Barron. The Cowboys also allowed 28 points, gave up 165 rushing yards and forced one punt.
New York converted nine of 11 third downs, leaving Dallas with two offensive possessions after halftime. Schottenheimer backed first-year coordinator Christian Parker and said Parker and the young players should improve in the upcoming game. No additional recovery timetable was provided.
