The Cowboys could be missing two defensive starters for their next two games after their season-opening loss to the New York Giants, coach Brian Schottenheimer said. DeMarvion Overshown has a hamstring strain, while Malik Hooker will undergo surgery for a fractured forearm.
Overshown, the middle linebacker responsible for relaying defensive communication between coaches and players, left after halftime and is expected to miss one to two weeks. Schottenheimer said Dallas hopes the absence lasts about two weeks. Hooker will not go on injured reserve, which would require at least four missed games.
P.J. Locke is expected to replace him in the passing-down package, with Caleb Downs continuing at safety and slot defender.
Dallas allowed 28 points and 394 yards in first-year coordinator Christian Parker’s debut. The Giants ran for 165 yards, and Dallas forced one punt. New York converted nine of 11 third downs, leaving the Cowboys with only two offensive possessions in the second half.
Schottenheimer defended Parker and expects improvement from him and the team’s young players. Jaishawn Barham worked primarily with Dee Winters, while Shemar James had limited snaps. Winters is the most experienced option, Schottenheimer said, and the team could elevate Curtis Robinson or Justin Barron from the practice squad.
