The Cowboys are gearing up for a high-stakes Thursday night showdown against the Lions, and they just got a key piece back in the mix. Wide receiver George Pickens, who was limited on Monday with calf and knee issues, returned to full participation in Tuesday’s practice. Barring any setbacks, Pickens looks ready to roll - and that’s big news for a Dallas offense that’s looking to keep its win streak alive and push it to four straight.
Pickens brings a physical presence and deep-threat ability that stretches defenses and opens up opportunities underneath. If he’s truly back at full speed, expect him to be a focal point in the passing game, especially against a Lions secondary that’s had its ups and downs this season.
The Cowboys also got encouraging updates on the defensive side of the ball. Edge rushers Dante Fowler and James Houston, along with safety Donovan Wilson, all upgraded from limited to full participants.
That’s a welcome sign for a pass rush that thrives on depth and rotational pressure. Fowler and Houston provide that extra burst off the edge, while Wilson’s return helps shore up the back end - particularly important against a Lions offense that can hit you in a variety of ways.
However, not everyone is trending in the right direction. Defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, who owner Jerry Jones said the team is planning to have available Thursday, has yet to practice this week due to a hamstring issue.
That’s something to monitor closely. Clowney’s ability to disrupt both the run and the pass would be a major asset against Detroit’s physical offensive front, but if he can’t go, Dallas may have to lean more heavily on younger depth pieces.
Left tackle Tyler Guyton also missed his second straight practice with an ankle injury. That’s a potential concern for the Cowboys’ protection schemes, especially with Detroit’s pass rush capable of generating pressure off the edge. Guyton’s status will be one to watch as game day approaches.
A few other notable names remained limited in Tuesday’s session: tackle Hakeem Adeniji (knee), cornerback Trevon Diggs (knee), and safety Malik Hooker (back). Their availability could impact both sides of the ball, particularly in sub-packages and special teams.
On the positive side, cornerback Da’Ron Bland, who’s been a turnover machine this season, was a full participant despite dealing with foot and wrist issues. Fellow corner Caelen Carson (hamstrings), defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa (elbow), and wide receiver KaVontae Turpin (shoulder) also practiced fully. That’s a good sign for a Cowboys team that thrives on speed and versatility, especially in the secondary and on special teams.
Bottom line: Dallas is getting healthier in some key areas, but a few lingering injuries - particularly Clowney’s and Guyton’s - could shape the game plan against a tough Lions squad. With Pickens trending toward full availability, though, the offense should have one of its top playmakers ready to go under the primetime lights.