TheDallas Cowboys have activated wide receiver Brandin Cooks from injured reserve, the team announced Wednesday. Cooks is slated to return to action against the New York Giants on Thanksgiving Day, marking his first appearance since Week 4.

Cooks sustained a knee injury during the Cowboys’ Week 4 matchup against the Giants, which necessitated arthroscopic surgery. Complications arose when an infection developed post-surgery, prolonging his recovery period. Prior to his injury, Cooks recorded nine receptions for 91 yards and one touchdown over four games.

In a corresponding roster move, the Cowboys have placed cornerback Caelen Carson on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury. Carson, a rookie fifth-round pick, played only 11 snaps against the Houston Texans in Week 11 and was inactive for Sunday’s game against the Washington Commanders. Per NFL rules, he will be sidelined for a minimum of four games.

The Cowboys’ secondary has been dealing with multiple injuries, including those to All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs, who is managing groin and knee issues. With Carson’s absence, Josh Butler is expected to start alongside DaRon Bland in the defensive backfield. Butler, who has been stepping up in recent games, will now have an increased role in the defense.

McCarthy praises Cooks’ return as Cowboys adapt to injury challenges

Head coach Mike McCarthy expressed optimism about Cooks’ return, stating, “Brandin has worked diligently to get back on the field. His experience and playmaking ability are invaluable to our offense.” Cooks’ return is anticipated to bolster the Cowboys’ receiving corps, providing quarterback Cooper Rush with a seasoned target as the team navigates the remainder of the season without Dak Prescott, who is on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.

The Cowboys’ offense has faced challenges in Cooks’ absence, relying heavily on wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and the emerging talents of players like Jalen Tolbert and KaVontae Turpin. Cooks’ return is expected to add depth and versatility to the receiving unit, potentially alleviating some of the pressure on Lamb and opening up the field for other playmakers.

Defensively, the team continues to adapt to the evolving roster due to injuries. The coaching staff has emphasized a “next man up” philosophy, with players like Butler being called upon to fill critical roles. McCarthy noted, “Injuries are an unfortunate part of the game, but we have confidence in our depth and the ability of our players to step up when needed.”

As the Cowboys prepare to face the Giants, the return of Brandin Cooks offers a significant boost to the offense, while the defense aims to maintain resilience amid ongoing injury challenges. The team’s performance in the upcoming game will be pivotal as they strive to improve their standing in the NFC East.