DeMarco Murray listed questionable, Cowboys still optimistic

Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (29) runs for a short gain during the first half against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Cowboys feature back DeMarco Murray has been making a quick recovery from a sprained MCL he suffered in Week 6 against the Washington Redskins. Murray was obviously unable to play in last week’s win over the Philadelphia Eagles, but he was able to practice on Wednesday and Thursday and is expected to play on Sunday. That would be stretching a three-week injury into a one-week absence, but Murray could be feeling the heat. Although this report from Sunday was refuted earlier this week, the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the Cowboys have concerns that Murray isn’t a legitimate feature back long-term. Murray’s a very good back, but his issue is staying healthy.

The Cowboys are officially listing Murray questionable on the injury report, but ESPN Dallas’s Todd Archer reports that the Cowboys are optimistic that he can play this week against the Detroit Lions. Since the beginning of the week, the Cowboys have been optimistic on Murray’s status, as owner Jerry Jones said that he “hopes” Murray can play. Now, it is VP Stephen Jones who is expressing optimism regarding Murray’s Week 8 status.

“He’s got a real shot. Wouldn’t say for sure. I think it’s still questionable but we’ll kind of see how he feels after today’s practice and we’ll see how it feels on Sunday and we’ll make a decision …. We want to do right for DeMarco for the season not just one game.”

This smells like a pure game-time decision, so be sure to keep track of all updates regarding DeMarco Murray, especially if you are a Cowboys fan or have him on your fantasy team. He is expected to play, but his status is still very much in question at this point. It’s good to hear that the Cowboys are hopeful that he will play this week, but Murray is an injury-prone back and pressing him to return soon from a sprained MCL isn’t always good business. He should be able to pull it off, especially since he seems motivated to keep his job for the long haul.

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