The Dallas Cowboys could have a potential problem on their hands. The team is still in contention for the playoffs, but injuries to certain players could knock them out. Heading into Week 10, Dallas's leading wide receiver Dez Bryant could be suffering from a potentially serious injury.
Bryant missed Wednesday's practice with a reported back issue. This did not appear to be anything noteworthy since he has long suffered from back problems, but managed to play through them. He returned to Thursday's workout but only participated in a limited fashion. Now, the Cowboys are concerned that this injury could be something more serious than anticipated.
FOX Sports is reporting that Bryant could possibly be suffering from a bulging or herniated disk that is potentially a big deal. Treatment for that injury could vary depending on the severity. He would likely have to rest while surgery is an option. Head coach Jason Garrett told reporters that Bryant has been bothered by the issue off and on this season, but the team expected him to play on Sunday. Bryant echoed that thought saying, "C'mon, you know I'm going to play."
The injury has forced Bryant to miss time before and if the Cowboys allow this to get worse, he could miss a significant amount of time going forward. This could spell out disaster for Dallas since the team holds a tight one-game lead over the Philadelphia Eagles. Bryant is the team's leading receiver with 705 yards and eight touchdowns on the year. He currently ranks in the top 10 in three statistical categories for receivers.
Without Bryant, Dallas would be left with a lot of uncertainty at the wide receiver position. Miles Austin has yet to be a factor this year. The Cowboys have shut him down due to a reoccurring hamstring problem. There is no timetable for his return to the field as the team intends to keep him out until he is 100 percent healthy. Miles has not recorded a single catch since Week 3, making him irrelevant whether he is on the field or not.
Terrance Williams would be forced to step up again as the receiver has shown great potential this year. He has 477 yards and four touchdowns on the season. Of course there is Jason Witten who would see his targets greatly increase if Bryant's injury gets worse. When it comes down to it, for Tony Romo, Bryant is irreplaceable so the Cowboys should proceed with caution with this latest injury.
