By admin 
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their Week 2 home-opener against the New Orleans Saints, they’re hoping to build on last week’s road victory over the Cleveland Browns. However, they may have to do so without one of their key offensive players.
Tight end Jake Ferguson suffered a knee injury during the second half of the season opener, which initially looked severe as he struggled to put weight on his leg. Fortunately, the injury turned out to be a strain, meaning he has avoided a trip to the Injured Reserve (IR). While Ferguson is recovering quickly and doesn’t expect to miss much time, his availability for the Saints game remains uncertain, and he could either sit out or be limited in action.
Opportunity for Tolbert to Shine
With Ferguson potentially out, the Cowboys need someone to step up on offense. Rookie tight end Luke Schoonmaker is expected to feel the pressure to perform, but as Mike Fisher of *Athlon Sports* suggests, wide receiver Jalen Tolbert may have the biggest opportunity to break out in this matchup.
“Heading into Dallas’ first preseason game, there was much talk about the battle for the No. 3 receiver spot,” Fisher explained. “Tolbert had already locked it up. He has put in the work with the team and individually with Dak Prescott. Against a banged-up Saints secondary, Tolbert has a chance to declare his arrival.”
The Saints’ defensive backfield could be vulnerable, with top cornerback Marshon Lattimore listed as questionable due to a hamstring issue. Safety Tyrann Mathieu, who dealt with a heel injury earlier in the week, returned to full participation on Friday but may still be a concern for New Orleans.
Tolbert’s Time to Step Up
In the season opener, Tolbert had just one catch for 12 yards, but he wasn’t the only Cowboy with modest stats. Prescott himself threw for just 179 yards, as the offense struggled to find rhythm. Now, in the comfort of AT&T Stadium, the Cowboys hope to shake off the rust and fully unleash their offensive potential.
With a weakened Saints secondary and the possible absence of Jake Ferguson, Jalen Tolbert has the perfect stage to prove his worth in Week 2 and deliver the breakout performance the Cowboys have been waiting for.