The Dallas Cowboys enter Week 4 facing a pivotal test, but just like the 2024 season, injuries have taken a toll on the roster. Other than this, the way the season has started with a 1–2 tally, fans and experts have raised concerns about the team’s ability to compete at a high level. The Cowboys’ no.1 squad, encircled by doubts, is their defense.
The Cowboys’ defense, in particular, has struggled to apply consistent pressure, leaving fans anxious about how Dallas will contain the Green Bay Packers’ offense. But don’t lose hope… here is the strong update by a veteran linebacker amid these concerns. The star linebacker Jadeveon Clowney has delivered a strong injury update, giving the Cowboys a much-needed boost heading into the matchup.
This season, injuries have already impacted several key contributors. The right guard, Tyler Booker, and star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb are set to miss the Packers game, weakening both the passing game and the offensive line. Yet, head coach Brian Schottenheimer remains confident in his team’s ability to compete. He confirmed that both Clowney and cornerback DaRon Bland are progressing well in their recoveries and even suggested that the Cowboys are “good enough to beat the Packers without (CeeDee Lamb and Tyler Booker).”
Jadeveon Clowney Expected to Play against the Packers
That optimism provides a measure of reassurance to fans concerned about the team’s recent struggles. Clowney’s own update adds further hope. Speaking to NFL reporters, Clowney himself said he feels “good, like riding a bike” and also added that he plans to bring his energy and effort back to the field when he is on the gridiron against the Green Bay Packers. “Just let my play do the talking,” he added.
Per the Cowboys’ official website, Clowney also added, “I was hoping I went last Sunday. But I’m looking forward to this Sunday again, and I just keep working throughout the week. Like I said, I prepare like I’m going, like every man in here should be; we don’t know who is going to be up. You just prepare like a pro and get ready to go. And yeah, I think I’m going to go.”
For a defense that has struggled to generate consistent pressure and prevent big plays, Clowney’s presence could be transformative. The Cowboys’ defense has struggled through the first three weeks of the 2025 season, allowing 92 points and over 1,190 yards. Per Inside The Star, that ranks as the second-worst three-game start in franchise history in terms of yardage allowed, trailing only the 2020 season’s disastrous opening stretch when Dallas gave up 1,214 yards and 97 points.
The defensive line has also underperformed against the run, with key players like Osa Odighizuwa and Mazi Smith failing to make an impact. However, the Cowboys’ owner, Jerry Jones, has warned coordinator Matt Eberflus to fix the issues quickly if Dallas wants to stay competitive, per The Times of India.
But in these darkest clouds hovering over Dallas, the potential impact of Clowney’s return extends to specific matchups against Green Bay.
The Packers themselves are coming off a narrow loss to the Cleveland Browns, leaving them eager to rebound. Love threw a last-second interception in that defeat, dropping Green Bay to a 2–1 record. With Lamb and Booker sidelined, Dallas’ offense will need to shoulder additional responsibility, which makes Clowney’s role on defense even more critical to get a win. His ability to disrupt plays and energize the unit could be the deciding factor in a game where every edge matters.
Week 4 is a defining moment for Dallas. A loss would deepen early-season concerns, while a win could ignite confidence and solidify belief in Schottenheimer’s system. The Cowboys’ ability to overcome injuries and execute under pressure will be tested. Clowney’s health, effort, and leadership may ultimately determine how effectively the defense can hold up against Green Bay. One player returning could shift the momentum of an entire season hanging in the balance.