The Dallas Cowboys may be without linebacker DeMarvion Overshown and safety Malik Hooker for their next two games after both were hurt in the season-opening loss to the New York Giants, coach Brian Schottenheimer said. Overshown left after halftime with a hamstring strain. He is the middle linebacker responsible for relaying defensive communication between coaches and players.
His anticipated recovery is one to two weeks, and Schottenheimer said the team would like it to be about two weeks.
Hooker will undergo surgery for a fractured forearm. Dallas does not intend to put him on injured reserve, which would require at least four missed games. P.J.
Locke is expected to handle Hooker’s role in passing situations, while Caleb Downs will continue at safety and in the slot. Dee Winters and Jaishawn Barham worked together for most of the linebacker snaps against New York, with Shemar James also seeing limited action. Schottenheimer called Winters the most experienced option and mentioned practice-squad elevations Curtis Robinson and Justin Barron.
The injuries followed a difficult first game for first-year defensive coordinator Christian Parker. New York scored 28 points and gained 394 yards, while Dallas forced only one punt. The Giants converted nine of 11 third downs, contributing to Dallas having two offensive possessions after halftime.
