Cowboys WR Brandin Cooks not expected to play against Jets

The Dallas Cowboys receiving corps will be shorthanded against the Jets.

NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported wide receiver Brandin Cooks is not expected to play on Sunday after he missed practice this week with an MCL sprain. 

Even though Cooks will likely sit out against New York, it shouldn’t become a lingering issue. Per David Moore of The Dallas Morning News, it’s a grade 1 sprain, which is the least severe. Cooks isn’t expected to miss multiple weeks.

However, it’s not ideal for the Cowboys as Cooks is the No. 2 WR behind Pro Bowler CeeDee Lamb.

This offseason, Dallas dealt a fifth- and sixth-round pick to Houston to acquire the 29-year-old WR. In 10 seasons, he has recorded 1,000 receiving yards or more six times. During the Cowboys 40-0 blowout against the Giants in Week 1, Cooks only logged two receptions for 22 yards, yet that was the second-highest figure on the team. 

The Cowboys still have some depth questions at WR. Michael Gallup only had one reception for 10 yards in Week 1. The team is using return specialist KaVontae Turpin as a WR this season, but he still needs to solidify his role. Second-year WR Jalen Tolbert showed promise in the preseason, yet it’s unclear if that will translate to production in the regular season.

New York is weaker without quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but its stingy defense could help it upset the Cowboys. The Jets forced four turnovers (three interceptions and one fumble) in a 22-16 victory over the Bills.Consequently, Dallas must rely on its strong rushing attack to avoid turnovers. Additionally, the Cowboys should emphasize the development of another pass-catcher to fortify their WR room.