The Dallas Cowboys faced a challenging situation leading up to their highly anticipated Sunday Night Football matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, especially after a concerning incident involving running back Ezekiel Elliott. As the teams prepared for the game at Acrisure Stadium, a weather delay caused by lightning forced players into the locker room, where a moment captured on camera raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.

In the footage, Elliott was seen struggling to put on his pads, appearing to experience visible pain, particularly in his shoulder area. This moment became a point of discussion on social media, especially considering that Elliott was already listed on the injury report for dehydration, not a shoulder issue. This discrepancy has led to speculation about his health and the Cowboys’ decision-making regarding their roster.

As the Cowboys geared up for the game against a formidable Pittsburgh defense, the absence of Dalvin Cook from the active roster became even more perplexing. Cook, who has been part of the Cowboys’ practice squad since late August, had not been elevated to the active roster despite the team’s ongoing struggles in the running game. Many had anticipated his potential debut during this critical matchup, especially given the circumstances surrounding Elliott’s condition.

With Deuce Vaughn also inactive for the game, the Cowboys were left with a thin backfield that included a potentially injured Elliott, Rico Dowdle, and Hunter Luepke. This situation raised questions about the team’s strategy and depth, particularly when facing a tough opponent like the Steelers.

Head coach Mike McCarthy and the Cowboys’ coaching staff have faced scrutiny for their roster decisions, especially when the team has struggled to establish a consistent running game. The decision not to activate Cook, who could have provided much-needed support, has left fans and analysts wondering about the team’s long-term plans and immediate needs.

As the game approached, the Cowboys’ offensive strategy became a focal point. With Elliott’s health in question and the absence of other key players, the pressure was on quarterback Dak Prescott to lead the offense effectively against Pittsburgh’s strong defensive lineup. The Cowboys’ ability to adapt to these challenges would be crucial in determining the outcome of the game.

Fans were left to speculate about the Cowboys’ approach to the game, particularly in light of Elliott’s visible struggles and the decision to keep Cook on the sidelines. The performance of the Cowboys’ running backs would be closely monitored, as the team sought to establish a ground game that could complement Prescott’s passing abilities.

As the Cowboys took the field, all eyes were on Elliott and the rest of the backfield. The stakes were high, and the team’s choices would be scrutinized as they aimed to secure a victory against the Steelers. With the season progressing, the Cowboys needed to find a balance between managing player health and maximizing their offensive potential.

The game served as a reminder of the complexities of NFL roster management, particularly when injuries and performance issues arise. As the Cowboys navigated this challenging situation, fans remained hopeful that the team could rise to the occasion and deliver a strong performance despite the obstacles in their path.

As the NFL season unfolds, the Cowboys’ decisions regarding player health and roster management will continue to be a topic of discussion. The outcome of this game against the Steelers could have significant implications for the team’s trajectory as they aim for success in a competitive league.