Cowboys face curious decisions as Mazi Smith set to debut against Bears while Clowney remains sidelined
The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for their Week 3 clash with the Chicago Bears, but the team’s inactive list has raised a few eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. As the Cowboys take to the field in the Windy City, the decisions regarding player availability have left many scratching their heads.
Injury Updates and Game-Day Decisions
Before the game kicked off, the Cowboys were already dealing with injuries. Cornerback DaRon Bland was confirmed to be ruled out, creating a noticeable gap in the secondary. The situation was further complicated by Trevon Diggs, who was nursing a sore knee. Fortunately for Dallas, Diggs was able to test his knee before the game and ultimately declared himself fit to play, providing a much-needed boost to the defense.
On the other hand, Jadeveon Clowney, the newly acquired defensive end, was also a game-time decision. Despite the anticipation surrounding his debut, Clowney was inactive for the matchup, a decision that may not have been entirely unexpected but still raised questions.
Mazi Smith’s Unexpected Debut
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the Cowboys’ inactive list is the inclusion of Mazi Smith, a former first-round pick who is set to make his debut. Smith had previously fallen out of favor, missing the first two weeks of the season in favor of rookie seventh-rounder Jay Toia, who struggled to make an impact.
Cowboys fans are left to wonder whether Smith’s elevation to active status is a testament to his improvement or a reflection of Toia’s difficulties on the field. The coaching staff’s decision to give Smith a chance could signal a shift in strategy, aiming to bolster the defensive front as they face a formidable Bears offense.
Cowboys Inactives Against Chicago
As the Cowboys prepare to face the Bears, here are the players who will not be suiting up:
DE Jadeveon Clowney
RB Jaydon Blue
CB DaRon Bland
DT Jay Toia
LB Shemar James
OL Ajani Cornelius
OG Trevon Keegan
With these choices made, the Cowboys’ coaching staff will be under scrutiny as they navigate the complexities of player performance and team dynamics. The outcome of today’s game may provide clarity, or perhaps further complicate the narrative surrounding these puzzling decisions.
