In the much-anticipated Week 1 matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and Cleveland Browns, both teams are dealing with significant absences that could impact the game.
For the Cowboys, backup quarterback Trey Lance headlines the inactives list, following a preseason where Cooper Rush secured the second-string QB role. Other inactives include Andrew Booth, Matt Waletzko, Buddy Johnson, Ryan Flournoy, and John Stephens Jr.
While Lance’s inactive status raises eyebrows, the Cowboys are confident in their current QB setup, especially with Dak Prescott recently signing a historic contract extension【6†source】.On the Cleveland side, the inactives list presents a more troubling situation, particularly along their offensive line.
Left tackle Jedrick Wills, still recovering from a knee injury sustained last season, and Jack Conklin are both unavailable. Their absence weakens the Browns’ protection scheme, making it even more difficult to contain the Cowboys’ potent pass rush, especially from linebacker Micah Parsons.
This could give Dallas a strategic edge in pressuring Cleveland’s quarterback, Deshaun Watson, who will have to navigate an aggressive defense without full protection.Both teams will need to adjust for these absences, but the Browns may face the larger challenge with a depleted offensive line going against one of the NFL’s most formidable front sevens.
Mike Zimmer, returning as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, will likely take advantage of Cleveland’s weakened protection, potentially shifting the game in favor of Dallas.
How well the Browns adapt and protect Watson could be the deciding factor in the matchup.
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