Micah Parsons is also expected to miss the upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to an ankle injury, a major blow to Dallas' defense. The Cowboys have signed defensive end K.J. Henry off Cincinnati's practice squad to fill Lawrence's roster spot. This is just the second significant injury for Lawrence in the past eight seasons, and his streak of 44 consecutive starts will end against the Steelers.
The Dallas Cowboys have suffered a significant blow to their defense, as they have placed defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence on injured reserve with a foot injury. Lawrence, their second-best pass rusher behind Micah Parsons, is expected to miss at least four games.
Lawrence's injury adds to the concerns surrounding the Cowboys' pass rush, as Parsons is also expected to miss the team's upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to a sprained ankle. Parsons, the reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year, is one of the most dynamic and impactful defenders in the NFL.
The Cowboys have signed defensive end K.J. Henry off Cincinnati's practice squad to fill Lawrence's roster spot. Henry, a second-year player, played twice for the Bengals this season.
Lawrence's injury is just the second significant one he has suffered in the past eight seasons. He has been a mainstay in the Cowboys' defense, starting 44 consecutive games before this injury. His absence will be a major blow to a defense that has already been struggling to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
In Lawrence's absence, rookie second-round draft pick Marshawn Kneeland and veterans Carl Lawson and Chauncey Golston are expected to see increased playing time. Tyrus Wheat, who has been inactive the past two games, may also be called upon.
The Cowboys' defense has been inconsistent this season, allowing opponents to score 20 or more points in four of their first six games. The loss of Lawrence and Parsons will make it even more challenging for the Cowboys to generate pressure and force turnovers.
Dallas' defense will face a tough test in their upcoming game against the Steelers, who have a potent offense led by quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. The Cowboys will need to find a way to generate pressure without Lawrence and Parsons if they hope to slow down the Steelers' offense.
The Cowboys' open week falls during Lawrence's first four weeks on injured reserve, which will give him time to recover and potentially return for the team's game against the Denver Broncos on Nov. 7.
