The Cowboys are using new options in the secondary after safety Jalen Thompson suffered a left leg injury during the second quarter against the Baltimore Ravens. Thompson’s leg was caught awkwardly during a tackle attempt, and he could not put weight on it before leaving for evaluation in the blue medical tent. He is listed as questionable to return with a hamstring injury.
Dallas promoted slot defender Reddy Steward from its practice squad before the game. Alijah Clark moved into the safety role alongside Markquese Bell after Thompson left. Rookie first-round pick Caleb Downs, who has safety experience from his college days, has also been on the practice squad.
The injury adds to a group of absences in the Cowboys’ secondary ahead of Week 3 against Baltimore. Free safety Malik Hooker remains sidelined by a forearm injury suffered in Week 1, while starting cornerback Cobie Durant was lost in Week 2 with a hamstring issue. PJ Locke, who replaced Hooker, is out with a foot injury.
Bell was also called for a defensive pass interference penalty that contributed to a first-half touchdown by Derrick Henry. Further details about Thompson’s condition and the effect on Dallas’ defensive strategy were not available.
