The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for a critical showdown against the Washington Commanders this Sunday at AT&T Stadium, and the return of three key players could be the game-changer they desperately need. After a disappointing loss in Carolina, where defensive struggles were compounded by offensive inconsistencies in clutch moments, the team is banking on a boost from some familiar faces. Among them is CeeDee Lamb, the star receiver who’s been sidelined for nearly four games with a high-ankle sprain. But here’s where it gets exciting: Lamb isn’t the only one. KaVontae Turpin, the dynamic returner and receiver nursing a foot injury, and rookie guard Tyler Booker, out with an ankle issue, are both in the mix to return this week. And this is the part most people miss—how these comebacks could reshape the team’s fortunes.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer remains cautiously optimistic, emphasizing that their progress will be closely monitored before practice resumes on Wednesday. ‘We’re hopeful to see them on the field at some point this week,’ Schottenheimer said, adding that their conditioning and mobility will be key factors. Meanwhile, Cowboys COO Stephen Jones sounded more confident, particularly about Lamb’s return. ‘Getting CeeDee back is huge—he’s one of the best receivers in the league,’ Jones noted. He also highlighted Turpin’s dual impact: ‘Turp helps our offense and our return game, which has been lacking his spark.’
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the offense has managed to score 40 and 37 points in recent games with T.J. Bass filling in for Booker, the running game hit a wall in Carolina, managing just 31 yards on 19 attempts. Booker’s return could provide the strength needed to improve the ground attack, but is it enough to fix the deeper issues? Critics argue that the offensive line’s struggles go beyond one player, and Booker’s absence alone doesn’t explain the inconsistency. Still, his return would be a welcome addition, especially with Tyler Guyton and Tyler Smith already back in action.
Turpin’s potential return is equally significant. The Cowboys’ return game has been lackluster in his absence, with Jalen Cropper and Jayden Blue failing to replicate his game-changing ability. ‘He’s an All-Pro returner,’ Jones reminded everyone. ‘When you’re missing one of the best in the business, it shows.’ Last year, Turpin’s 99-yard kickoff return in Washington sealed a 34-26 victory, proving his value extends far beyond special teams. With 182 scrimmage yards and a touchdown catch this season, he’s a true dual threat.
Here’s the burning question: Can the return of Lamb, Turpin, and Booker turn the tide for the Cowboys, or are their issues too deep for a few players to fix? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think this trio can make the difference, or is the team facing bigger challenges? One thing’s for sure: Sunday’s game against the Commanders will be a must-watch as these storylines unfold.
