The Dallas Cowboys could be without starting linebacker DeMarvion Overshown and safety Malik Hooker for the next two games, coach Brian Schottenheimer said Monday after the team's season-opening loss to the New York Giants.
Overshown suffered a hamstring strain and did not return for the second half. He serves as the middle linebacker responsible for relaying the coach's calls to the defense, and Schottenheimer said the injury could keep him out for one to two weeks. "We're hoping it's a two-week window," Schottenheimer said.
Hooker is set to have surgery for a fractured forearm. The safety will not be placed on injured reserve, a move that would require him to miss at least four games. P.J. Locke is expected to take Hooker's snaps in passing-down packages, while Caleb Downs will continue working as a safety and slot player in those situations.
The Cowboys used rookie Jaishawn Barham alongside Dee Winters for most of the snaps after Overshown left, with Shemar James also playing briefly. Schottenheimer identified Winters as the most experienced option and said the team could also elevate practice-squad players Curtis Robinson and Justin Barron. Robinson is a veteran, while the coaching staff has high expectations for Barron.
The defensive injuries follow a difficult first game for new coordinator Christian Parker. New York scored 28 points, gained 394 yards and forced only one punt. The Giants also ran for 165 yards and converted nine of 11 third-down opportunities, leaving Dallas with two offensive possessions in the second half.
