The Dallas Cowboys suffered a major setback ahead of their highly anticipated Week 3 matchup against the Green Bay Packers, as star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has officially been ruled out with an ankle injury. The announcement comes as a huge blow to a Cowboys offense that had been building momentum, and raises pressing questions about how long their most dynamic playmaker will be sidelined.
The Injury Situation
Lamb initially injured his ankle during the team’s last game against the Chicago Bears. Though he managed to finish the contest, reports following the game indicated that he experienced swelling and discomfort that worsened during the week. After undergoing further evaluation and missing multiple practice sessions, the Cowboys made the difficult decision to rule him out for Sunday’s clash with Green Bay.
Sources close to the team suggest that the injury is not considered season-ending, but the Cowboys are exercising caution given Lamb’s importance to their long-term success. Early indications point toward a recovery window ranging from one to three weeks, depending on how his ankle responds to treatment.
Impact on the Cowboys Offense
The absence of Lamb cannot be understated. He has been the focal point of the Cowboys’ passing game since taking over the WR1 role two seasons ago. In just the first two games of the 2025 season, Lamb has already posted 15 receptions for 192 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating once again why he is one of the most dangerous wideouts in the NFL.
Without Lamb, quarterback Dak Prescott will need to lean heavily on the supporting cast. Brandin Cooks, who has been a reliable veteran presence, is expected to slide into the top receiver role. Young wideouts like Jalen Tolbert and rookie Ryan Flournoy will also be thrust into larger roles. The Cowboys may rely more on tight end Jake Ferguson and their running game to shoulder the offensive load.
Head coach Mike McCarthy acknowledged the challenge earlier this week, saying, “You don’t replace a player like CeeDee one-for-one. It’s about spreading the responsibility across the offense. We trust the guys in that room to step up.”
Timing of the Injury
The timing of Lamb’s absence could not be more critical. The Cowboys are set to face the Packers, a team that boasts one of the league’s top cornerbacks in Jaire Alexander. Without Lamb to draw coverage, Green Bay’s defense may be able to dictate matchups more favorably. Beyond this week, Dallas has a short turnaround with another divisional game looming, which could further complicate Lamb’s return timeline.
If Lamb misses multiple games, the Cowboys’ early-season playoff positioning could be impacted. The NFC race is expected to be tight, and every win matters in what many view as a “make-or-break” season for Prescott and McCarthy.
How Long Will He Be Out?
Ankle injuries can vary widely in severity, but based on current reports, Lamb’s injury is categorized as a moderate sprain. This type typically sidelines players for one to three weeks, though the Cowboys will evaluate him on a day-to-day basis. If swelling subsides and mobility returns quickly, he could make his return as soon as Week 4. However, the team is wary of rushing him back too soon and risking a setback.
Team medical staff emphasized that the goal is to have Lamb at full strength for the majority of the season rather than pushing him for a short-term gain. With the Cowboys’ aspirations set on a deep playoff run, protecting their best offensive weapon is the priority.
Looking Ahead
In the meantime, Dallas must prove it can adapt without its star. For Prescott, this presents both a challenge and an opportunityto show he can distribute the ball effectively and keep the offense moving without leaning too heavily on Lamb. For the younger receivers, it’s a chance to step out of the shadows and make their mark.
Cowboys fans will be holding their breath over the next few weeks, anxiously awaiting updates on Lamb’s recovery. While the initial news is far from ideal, the silver lining is that the injury is not considered long-term. If Lamb can return quickly, the Cowboys may weather the storm.
For now, though, Dallas heads into Lambeau Field without its biggest weapona daunting task that will test the depth, resilience, and creativity of the Cowboys offense.
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