Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson departed Sunday’s season-opening game against the Browns with a left knee injury in the third quarter, and linebacker Erick Kendricks came off the field because he was suffering from dehydration.
The team announced both players were questionable to return.
Ferguson, a third-year tight end, rolled on the ground in pain when Browns linebacker Jordan Hicks pulled him down for a tackle after a short reception. Cowboys trainers quickly met Ferguson near the spot of the injury, talked with him and helped guide him through the tunnel that leads to the team’s locker room.
It appeared Ferguson did not feel comfortable putting weight on his left leg as he moved with his arms around trainers.
Ferguson amassed the second most receiving yards on the Cowboys last year and figured to play a large role in the offense this season. Backups Luke Schoonmaker and underdrafted rookie Brevyn Spann-Ford played at tight end in the wake of Ferguson’s departure Sunday, while fullback Hunter Luepke also offers an option at the position.
Tight end John Stephens Jr. missed Sunday’s game with a hamstring injury.
Kendricks, a starter who intercepted a pass in the first half, left the field later in the third quarter and was replaced by Nick Vigil. Afterward, Kendricks returned to the sideline and wore his helmet, suggesting he’d be available to play if needed.
The Cowboys led 30-10 at the end of the third quarter and appeared in control of the game.