DeMarco Murray Injury: Cowboys RB “looks good to go”

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 running back DeMarco Murray sprained his MCL just two weeks ago, but he is expected to play today against the Detroit Lions. MCL sprains usually cost players 3-4 weeks, but Murray is determined to get back on the field and was actually able to practice all week. He’s officially listed as questionable on the Cowboys injury report, and I wonder if the injury-prone back is feeling some internal pressure from the organization to show his toughness and get back on the field as quickly as possible.

The NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Murray “looks good to go”, so it sounds like his knee injury has definitely progressed much quicker than usual. However, Murray will still be a game-time decision for the Cowboys, so nobody should be locking him in for today’s game. I expect Murray to play, but I think the Cowboys will limit him by giving some carries to Lance Dunbar and/or rookie Joseph Randle. Which of the two RBs gets the No. 2 role is a question that I’m not comfortable with answering at this point.

When healthy, DeMarco Murray is a very good running back in this league, and he has done a great job as the Cowboys feature back this season. Not only does he have 428 rushing yards, but he also has a solid 164 receiving yards as well with three rushing touchdowns. He isn’t a star, but he’s a good back and keeps the Cowboys offense balanced.

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