### Injuries Sideline Key Cowboys' Defensive Ends Ahead of Steeler Clash

The Dallas Cowboys are facing significant challenges after both starting defensive ends were injured during their recent victory against the New York Giants on Thursday night. Head coach Mike McCarthy revealed on Friday that Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence are set to receive second opinions on their injuries. Although Parsons hasn't been ruled out for the upcoming Week 5 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Executive Vice President Stephen Jones described him as "week to week" during his regular segment on 105.3 The Fan.

Parsons sustained his injury in the fourth quarter when he was rolled from behind by Giants' offensive guard Greg Van Roten while rushing against center John Michael Schmitz Jr. Parsons had to be carted off the field to the X-ray room thereafter. The Cowboys are cautiously optimistic about his recovery, especially with a 10-day window between games providing a valuable buffer.

On the other hand, Lawrence's situation appears more concerning. Despite initial hopes, X-rays revealed his foot injury to be more severe than anticipated. McCarthy confirmed that while Lawrence didn't suffer a fracture, he has incurred a foot sprain that is expected to sideline him for a longer period compared to Parsons. Lawrence was forced to leave the game during the first drive of the second half and did not return.

Adding to the Cowboys' injury woes, cornerback DaRon Bland is also not expected to return immediately due to a foot injury. However, Jones indicated that Bland is "getting closer" to a comeback, and the team could initiate his 21-day activation window next week.

The Cowboys will have to quickly adjust their defensive strategy as they prepare for their clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 5, with the hope that their key players can make timely recoveries.