The Dallas Cowboys will likely have to wait at least another week for the return of star running back DaRon Bland, who has been sidelined since August with a foot injury.

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While there has been some progress in his recovery, his status for the upcoming Week 11 game against the Houston Texans remains uncertain.

Cowboys EVP Stephen Jones updated Bland’s condition during an appearance on 105.3 The Fan.

“He had a really good week“, Jones said. “It’s not going to be good enough to roll him out Monday (night), but he’s really getting close. Feel better about where he is.”

Bland, who earned First-Team All-Pro honors in 2023 after a record-setting season, has been sorely missed by the Cowboys’ defense. His absence has forced the team to rely on other players to step up in his place, such as freshman running back Caelen Carson, who missed four games earlier this season.

With Bland’s 21-day training window expiring on Nov. 20, the clock is ticking for his potential return. If he cannot be activated by that date, he will be forced to miss the remainder of the 2024 regular season.

As the Cowboys prepare to face the Texans on Monday Night Football, they will have to rely on their current defensive lineup that features several back-ups forced to step up.

While Dallas’ interception leader from last year returning would be a significant boost for the team, it appears they will continue to adopt a “next man up” approach.

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