**Cowboys Face Steelers Without Star Pass Rusher Micah Parsons**

The Dallas Cowboys, currently holding a 2-2 record, anticipate a challenging match against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have a 3-1 standing, on "Sunday Night Football" in Week 5. Despite securing a critical 20-15 victory over the New York Giants on "Thursday Night Football" last week, the Cowboys' defensive lineup faces significant obstacles.

One major concern for Dallas comes from the injury to their star pass rusher, Micah Parsons, who had to be carted off the field due to an ankle injury. Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy has indicated that Parsons is unlikely to participate in the upcoming game against the Steelers. Parsons has a sprained ankle and has been seen using a boot and scooter to aid his recovery. Depending on the severity, recovery could span 6-8 weeks. Coincidentally, Dallas has a bye week in Week 7, potentially giving Parsons additional time to recuperate before their next "Sunday Night Football" game against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 8.

Parsons is determined to return to the field as soon as possible. He expressed his eagerness to play, stating, "I want to play. If I can play, I will play. To me, as long as I can run and move how I want to move, I want to play." This marks his first considerable injury, with him having missed only one game in his career due to COVID-19 during Week 18 of his rookie year.

To adapt to Parsons' absence, the Cowboys are relying on Chauncey Golston, who is next in line on the depth chart at right defensive end. Golston, a third-round draft pick in 2021, has accumulated 4.5 career sacks over 51 games, including three starts. Additionally, rookie second-round pick Marshawn Kneeland is expected to step up as the primary pass rusher. Kneeland, though yet to secure his first sack, has delivered three quarterback hits in the first four weeks of the season.

As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for this crucial matchup, they face the challenge of bolstering their defense without one of their key players. How effectively they can compensate for Parsons' absence will likely play a decisive role in their performance against the Steelers.