The Dallas Cowboys have decided to sideline CeeDee Lamb for the final two games of the season, following a determination that his right shoulder injury requires rest.
The 2023 All-Pro wide receiver, CeeDee Lamb, has been playing through a sprained right shoulder for much of the season. The Cowboys, after conducting further examinations, concluded that the damage warranted taking Lamb off the field for the upcoming games against Philadelphia and Washington. Despite the injury, surgery is reportedly not necessary for Lamb.
This move by the Cowboys comes in the wake of being eliminated from playoff contention, following their 26-24 victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. As a result, the Cowboys will conclude the season with several key players, including CeeDee Lamb, on injured reserve. Other notable players who have ended their seasons early due to injuries include quarterback Dak Prescott, who suffered a dramatic hamstring tear after eight games, and right guard Zack Martin, who underwent season-ending ankle surgery after ten games.
Moreover, the defense has also been hit hard, with DeMarcus Lawrence sidelined since Week 4 due to a foot injury, and Trevon Diggs having his season cut short by a knee injury after managing to play in 11 games. Lamb initially injured his shoulder during a November game against Atlanta but continued to perform exceptionally well, recording over 100 receiving yards in each of his last two appearances before being shut down.
CeeDee Lamb’s absence will be felt, especially considering his remarkable performance the previous season, where he led the NFL with 135 catches, amassing a team-record 1,749 receiving yards and scoring 12 touchdowns. Despite a contract holdout dispute during the offseason, which was resolved with a $136 million four-year extension, Lamb and the Cowboys struggled to replicate last season’s extraordinary performance in 2024. Lamb finishes this season with 101 catches for 1,194 yards and six touchdowns.
This season marks a period of adversity for the Cowboys, as they miss out on the playoffs for the first time since Lamb’s rookie year in 2020. The decision to protect Lamb’s health reflects the team’s focus on long-term player welfare and future seasons.
While the Cowboys’ season ends without a playoff berth, the emphasis on player health and recovery highlights their commitment to maintaining a competitive team for the future.
Source: Local10
