The Cowboys' Tough Season Comes to a Close
The Dallas Cowboys are wrapping up a tumultuous season, finding themselves sidelined from playoff contention with a 7-8 record. In an unexpected twist, they'll be completing their journey without their star wide receiver, CeeDee Lamb, who is out due to a painful right shoulder AC joint sprain.
CeeDee Lamb's Stellar Season Despite Setbacks
CeeDee Lamb has delivered an exceptional performance this year, leading the league with 135 receptions and snagging the second spot in receiving yards with an impressive 1,749. It's a remarkable feat, especially considering the challenges he faced, including his recent shoulder injury. On this, fellow Cowboy Micah Parsons shared his admiration, "I know his shoulder has been bothering him, but I think for CeeDee (what) was so impressive -- and he might be the best player that I've seen with my own eyes -- is that man ... he just loves the game of football."
This season marked another year of surpassing 1,000 receiving yards, stretching his streak to four consecutive seasons. Moreover, Lamb's 496 receptions over five years place him right behind Michael Thomas' record of 510. Even in Week 17 against Tampa Bay, Lamb managed to rack up 105 yards on seven catches before injury struck.
Quarterback Changes and Upcoming Challenges
With CeeDee on the sidelines, Cooper Rush steps in as the Cowboys' fill-in starting quarterback. The Cowboys are gearing up for their next matchups against two tough opponents: the Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Commanders. As the season nears its end, head coach Mike McCarthy remains focused on the team's preparations, pointing out the importance of rehabilitation and practice, stating, "That's why you have the return to practice group, the rehab group, so there's a process."
Lamb himself remains remarkably candid about his situation. Reflecting on his injury, he admitted, "I really scored... But yeah, my shoulder is out of whack. Bro, I'm not even going to lie to you. I'm just out there battling and doing what I do. Yeah, bro, it's not fun." His dedication to the game and ability to perform under various quarterbacks impresses many, including Parsons, who noted, "At one point, you give grace to all these other wide receivers and say 'Oh, they're not producing because they don't got their quarterback.' But CeeDee has shown time and time again that he can do it with anyone throwing him the rock."