NFL: Dallas Cowboys Training Camp
Aug 1, 2026; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker at training camp at River Ridge Playing Fields. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
The Dallas Cowboys could be dealing with even more problems on defense heading into their Week 9 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Dallas already has one of the worst defensive units in the NFL, and the situation could get worse if defensive backs Caleb Downs and P.J. Locke III are unable to play Sunday.
Cowboys DBs Caleb Downs and PJ Locke III are still in concussion protocol. “They have to get through this practice to clear protocol, but I think we’re optimistic.”
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) November 6, 2026
Both players remain in concussion protocol, putting their availability for the matchup in question. While there is still optimism that they could be cleared in time, they have another important hurdle to get through before being eligible to return to the field.
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Caleb Downs and P.J. Locke III remain in concussion protocol
NFL: Dallas Cowboys at Seattle Seahawks
Aug 15, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Dallas Cowboys safety Caleb Downs (13) during the first half against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Downs and Locke are both working through the NFL’s concussion protocol ahead of Sunday’s game against Indianapolis. Their status remains uncertain, with the Cowboys needing both defensive backs to complete the necessary steps before they can be cleared.
The latest update offered some optimism, but there is no guarantee either player will be available.
“They have to get through this practice to clear protocol, but I think we’re optimistic.”
That means the upcoming practice is especially important for both players. If they are unable to clear the protocol, Dallas could be forced to make additional adjustments to its secondary against a Colts offense that will be looking to take advantage of the matchup.
Losing either defensive back would be an unwelcome development for a Cowboys defense that has struggled considerably this season. Losing both would create an even bigger challenge for a unit that already ranks among the worst in the league.
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Cowboys defense could get even worse against Colts
May 1, 2026; Frisco, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Caleb Downs (18) is coached through a drill with defensive coordinator Christian Parker at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility in Frisco, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images
Dallas has not been getting the job done defensively, and the possibility of entering Week 9 without Downs and Locke adds another concern. The Cowboys need as much help as they can get on that side of the football, particularly with a difficult matchup against Indianapolis approaching.
The Colts will have an opportunity to take advantage if Dallas is missing key pieces in its secondary. Communication, coverage assignments and depth could all become bigger concerns if the Cowboys have to turn to other options at defensive back.
The timing is far from ideal for Dallas. With the defense already struggling to slow down opposing offenses, losing two players who could contribute in the secondary would make an already difficult situation even worse.
There is still a chance both Downs and Locke get cleared, and the Cowboys remain optimistic about their availability. However, until they officially get through the concussion protocol, their status for Sunday remains uncertain.
Dallas desperately needs its defense to improve, and having both players available would certainly help. If they are ruled out, the Cowboys could be facing an even tougher afternoon against Indianapolis in Week 9.
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