FRISCO, Texas – The shots just keep coming for the Dallas Cowboys. Just when defensive end Randy Gregory returned to the team facility from COVID-19 protocol, the Cowboys added linebacker Keanu Neal to the Reserve/COVID-19 list on Wednesday. Neal becomes the 11th Cowboys player to be placed under COVID-19 protocol since Aug. 21.
The Cowboys have not ruled Neal out, but the team is preparing to be without him on Monday night. Neal ranks sixth on the team with eight tackles and played 50 snaps against the Bucs and 51 against the Chargers in the linebacker rotation.
“There’s definitely a chance, based on protocols, different variations of it, but he’s in it right now,” Mike McCarthy remarked on Neal’s availability.
In addition to the challenge of Neal’s absence, the defense has been hit by injuries. Defensive end Dorance Armstrong sprained his ankle against the Chargers and has been ruled out of Monday’s game, along with defensive tackle Carlos Watkins per McCarthy. Watkins suffered a knee injury against L.A.
With DeMarcus Lawrence on the Reserve/Injured list for a few weeks following foot surgery, Gregory’s return will bring added reinforcement to the edge for Dallas.
In addition, offensive tackle Ty Nsekhe will not practice this week and has been ruled out of Monday night’s game with an illness, according to McCarthy. Nsekhe was treated for heat exhaustion symptoms last week and was inactive against the Chargers.
“It’s an illness and there’s a plan to bring him back,” McCarthy stated. “Just got to be smart. This is a long year.”
