CeeDee Lamb injury: WR exits Thanksgiving game vs Giants
CeeDee Lamb’s performance was cut short during the Cowboys’ Thanksgiving matchup against the Giants after he suffered a right shoulder injury in the third quarter. The star wide receiver was tackled by Giants defensive back Dru Phillips, leading to a pass interference call.
Lamb stayed down briefly after the play, clutching his shoulder. Although he left the field on his own, he returned for a single play before heading back to the sidelines, visibly uncomfortable and without his helmet. Lamb did not re-enter the game after that sequence.
Fox Sports sideline reporter Erin Andrews later shed light on Lamb’s exit. According to Andrews, Lamb aggravated a pre-existing AC joint sprain in his right shoulder.
“Well, coming into this game, CeeDee Lamb was dealing with an AC joint injury. He’s banged up,” Andrews reported.
“I talked to him this week. He said, ‘Look, this has been a tough year. I am very, very banged up.’ We saw him fall right there, but Dallas isn’t saying he’s out for any particular reason. But you guys know it, Tom [Brady] knows it better than anyone. This is the time of year where guys are hurting.”
Lamb’s absence was felt in the second half, as he remained on the sidelines without taking any additional snaps. The Cowboys have not yet provided an official update on his status for upcoming games.
Before exiting, Lamb had two receptions on six targets for 39 yards. He entered the game as one of Dallas’ most consistent offensive contributors, with 77 catches, 841 receiving yards, and four touchdowns for the season.
The AC joint sprain in Lamb’s right shoulder was already a concern coming into the game, and the tackle in the third quarter only worsened the injury. While he briefly stayed on the field, his inability to return in the fourth quarter raises questions about his availability moving forward.
If Lamb misses additional time, the Cowboys will likely rely on a collective effort to fill the gap. Jalen Brooks, listed as Lamb’s direct backup, could see an increased role alongside other wideouts like Jalen Tolbert and Brandin Cooks.
Here’s how the Cowboys’ depth chart for wide receivers currently looks:
KaVontae Turpin and Jonathan Mingo, though lower on the depth chart, have been gaining more offensive opportunities in recent weeks. Additionally, Ryan Flournoy, who was inactive for Thursday’s game, could be activated if Lamb is unable to suit up next week.
Dallas is dealing with more than just CeeDee Lamb’s injury. Quarterback Cooper Rush (knee) and cornerback DaRon Bland (foot) are also question marks heading into the next game. The Cowboys have been battling injuries all season, highlighted by the absence of All-Pro guard Zack Martin and star cornerback Trevon Diggs during their recent win against Washington.
Image: © Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images