IRVING, Texas – The MRI results for Mike Jenkins
and Morris Claiborne didn’t reveal any structural damage after both Cowboys cornerbacks sat out portions of Sunday’s game against the Ravens.
Claiborne was down for several minutes and clutching his knee after Torrey Smith’s touchdown catch, while Jenkins left after aggravating his shoulder, forcing Orlando Scandrick into the starting rotation. Both Claiborne and Jenkins returned later in the game.
Major shoulder surgery stopped Jenkins from competing in the preseason, while Claiborne sprained his MCL during a preseason practice. Head coach Jason Garrett said Monday while awaiting Jenkins’ results that he was hopeful Jenkins could return to his typical role this weekend.
The status of running back DeMarco Murray is a bit foggier. An MRI on Murray’s sprained foot revealed minor ligament damage, and he could miss this weekend’s game against Carolina. Garrett said he doesn’t have a timetable for Murray yet, and the extent of the sprain still must be evaluated.
Backups Phillip Tanner and Lance Dunbar contributed in the rushing game against the Ravens after Murray’s strong first half, but the majority of the carries went to Felix Jones, who finished with more rushing attempts than any player in the game.
“We’ll continue to give him opportunities, depending on what DeMarco’s health is,” Garrett said. “I also think the young kids behind him, Tanner going in and getting nine carries against that defense and pouring up in there, and even Lance Dunbar getting one carry for 11 yards at a critical time in the game, those guys all stepped up in there.”
Sean Lissemore also left Sunday’s game after the first drive with a high ankle sprain, which should activate Marcus Spears this weekend.
