Amid the sea of injuries that NFL franchises have found themselves in, the Cowboys aren’t any special. Before their clash in Pittsburgh, key defensive player CB Caelen Carson was added to the list of inactive alongside other players. Having come away with a narrow win over the Giants last week, by 20-15 the Cowboys were hoping they could produce a strong showing this week.

However, considering the number of inactive players they have before the clash, it doesn’t seem like it would be any easier for the Cowboys. Carson isn’t the only one who was added to the list of inactive as he is joined by Micah Parsons, Trey Lance, Deuce Vaughn, K.J. Henry, Matt Waletzko, and John Stephens.

Although Carson was ruled out from the clash, there was little hope of him being involved as head coach Mike McCarthy shared he was “coming along slowly.” It seems like the Cowboys are taking a cautious approach towards their rookie CB while ensuring it doesn’t turn into a long-term injury. Even General Manager Jerry Jones was pretty optimistic regarding Carson returning for the clash, “I think Carson has a real chance.”

However, the shoulder injury he suffered against the Giants may not be recovering soon enough, thereby causing a delay in his participation. Building up to the clash, Carson had limited training and wasn’t involved fully, as his return was questionable. But Carson isn’t the only player who wouldn’t be coming back for this clash, as CB Daron Bland remains out after his injury during the preseason.

All-Pro CB Trevon Diggs is also out after he suffered an ankle injury last Sunday. Elsewhere, defensive end Demarcus Lawrence sustained a foot injury, thereby ruling him out of the clash this weekend. Among all those who are absent, the Cowboys are in dire need of linebackers as Micah Parsons continues to deal with a high ankle sprain.

Micah Parsons’ absence adds woes to the Cowboys’ struggling offense this week

Somehow, the Cowboys managed to snap their two-game losing streak last week in New York. But it didn’t come without sacrifices, as Micah Parsons was carted off the field for an ankle injury. Even before the clash, the Cowboys weren’t optimistic enough on whether Parsons would be there in Pittsburgh. Over this week, Micah had a boot and scooter to nurture his ankle, thereby allowing him to return as soon as possible.

But based upon the injury he suffered, it could take Parsons 6-8 weeks to even make it to the bench. However, the Cowboys’ LB was pretty confident about his recovery as he conveyed, “I want to play. If I can play, I will play. To me, as long as I can run and move how I want to move, I want to play.”

Amid his absence, the opportunity of starting at his position might fall upon the shoulders of Chauncey Golston. Well, there is also a second-round pick this season, Marshawn Kneeland, who could be a great option for the Cowboys in Pittsburgh. Although he hasn’t recorded any sacks yet, his three QB hits might speak volumes for his turn to start this week.

As the Cowboys prepare to take on the Steelers, they could be missing key players. However, it’s the NFL where we get surprises every week. Therefore, you cannot possibly rule out any chances until the final whistle gets blown in Pittsburgh.