The Dallas Cowboys’ early-season momentum hit a wall in Week 3. In a 31–14 loss to the Chicago Bears, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb suffered a high ankle sprain that is expected to sideline him for the next three to four weeks. For a team already sitting at 1–2 and struggling to find offensive consistency, losing their best playmaker is a significant setback.

Lamb exited the game early after being tackled awkwardly, briefly returned, but could not finish. While he has expressed optimism about playing as soon as Week 4, team officials have made clear that his return timeline is uncertain, and he is considered unlikely to suit up against the Green Bay Packers. That means Dak Prescott and first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer will have to navigate life without their most reliable weapon.

The Cowboys’ offense now enters a crucial stretch with questions swirling. George Pickens, the clear WR2, must prove he can handle a WR1 role. His ability to win jump balls and stretch defenses vertically will be tested, and Dallas will look for him to provide the kind of consistency that Lamb offered. Jalen Tolbert, who has steadily earned more opportunities, will also need to take a step forward. With more targets headed his way, Tolbert’s development could be accelerated in the coming weeks.

Tight end Jake Ferguson may also play a bigger role, especially in the short and intermediate passing game. Schottenheimer and his staff will need to find creative ways to keep defenses honest, whether through increased use of motion, a heavier reliance on the run game, or designed plays that create easy completions for Prescott.

But the spotlight inevitably falls back on Dak. Without Lamb, the Cowboys’ quarterback may once again be asked to play hero ball—something reminiscent of 2020, when he carried the offense before suffering a season-ending injury. With the defense struggling to contain opponents, Prescott may need to elevate his play to near-MVP levels just to keep Dallas competitive until Lamb returns.

The following month will be telling. If Pickens and Tolbert seize the moment, the Cowboys can stay afloat in the NFC race. If they don’t, Dallas risks slipping into dangerous territory before its top receiver even returns to the field. For now, the Cowboys must survive without their star, leaving Dak Prescott to shoulder the burden of keeping their season alive.