During the offseason break for the Dallas Cowboys, players are utilizing the time to address lingering injuries sustained during the 2023 season.
According to insights from ESPN’s Todd Archer, tight end Peyton Hendershot, guard T.J. Bass, and cornerback Stephon Gilmore underwent surgeries shortly after the conclusion of the season, notably after their playoff game against the Green Bay Packers.
Among these players, Gilmore stands out due to his significant contribution in his debut season with the Cowboys.
With his impending free agency status, the decision of whether to retain him rests with the team’s front office, bearing in mind his recovery period, which is estimated to span four to six months.
Gilmore’s injury narrative is particularly noteworthy, having endured a torn labrum during Week 18 against the Washington Commanders, persisting through the Wild Card game despite the physical setback.
Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s strategic adjustment towards employing a predominantly zone coverage scheme against the Packers partly stemmed from Gilmore’s compromised physical condition.
While Bass and Hendershot assumed more limited roles during the 2023 season, they remain integral to the team’s future plans.
Hendershot, who spent a portion of the season on the injured reserve due to an ankle ailment, demonstrated resilience in attempting a comeback before ultimately requiring surgical intervention to address the severity of his injury.
Meanwhile, Bass has garnered attention and anticipation from fans, showcasing glimpses of potential during his sporadic appearances at both left and right guard positions.
As an undrafted rookie, Bass presents a promising prospect, potentially vying for a starting role within the offensive line contingent upon various factors such as Zack Martin’s potential retirement, Tyler Smith’s transition to left tackle, or coaching preferences, including a possible trial at the center position.
Assuming Gilmore secures a new contract with the Cowboys, the collective outlook for all three players appears optimistic, with a projected timeline for their full recovery aligning well with the commencement of the regular season in September, provided their rehabilitation progresses as anticipated.
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