Cowboys Defensive Player Suffers Torn ACL; Out For Season
The Dallas Cowboys' defense has been dealt a significant blow before the first full-padded practice of training camp, losing defensive end Sam Williams for the season due to a torn ACL and MCL in his left knee.
The injury occurred during a special teams drill on Sunday, where Williams was engaged in a blocking drill and subsequently fell, remaining on the ground for several minutes.
Unable to put any weight on his leg, he was carted off the field, and an MRI later confirmed the severity of the injury, which will require season-ending surgery.
#Cowboys DE Sam Williams is feared to have torn his ACL in practice today, sources tell me and @RapSheet. He’ll have an MRI to confirm. A tough blow early in camp. pic.twitter.com/xGcKIjT2Wz
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 28, 2024
Williams, a 2022 second-round pick, was poised to be a key contributor to the Cowboys' defense this season.
In his first two seasons, he recorded 8.5 sacks, 16 QB hits, 15 tackles for loss, and 48 tackles, showing great promise.
With the departures of Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. in free agency, Williams was expected to step up behind star pass rushers Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence.
His injury now forces the Cowboys to rely on other pass-rushers, including this year's second-round pick Marshawn Kneeland, along with Durrell Johnson and Junior Fehoko.
Cowboys DE Sam Williams (knee) being carted off after going down during a drill pic.twitter.com/BJotookxEO
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 28, 2024
The loss of Williams adds to an already challenging offseason for the Cowboys, marked by off-field issues such as CeeDee Lamb's holdout and Dak Prescott's contract situation.
Despite these difficulties, the team remains optimistic about the potential of their other defensive ends. Head coach Mike McCarthy has praised Kneeland's early performance in training camp, highlighting his physicality and maturity.
However, the Cowboys will need to quickly adjust their defensive strategy and fill the void left by Williams as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Photo Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
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