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Cowboys safety Malik Hooker, left, returned to practice Thursday.
The Cowboys’ much-maligned defense could soon get reinforcements. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said Thursday that safety Malik Hooker is returning to practice, according to Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News.
Hooker, 29, was placed on injured reserve after sustaining a toe injury in a Week 4 game against the Packers. He is now eligible to resume practicing, and Dallas will have 21 days to add him to the 53-man roster.
He has 20 tackles (12 solo) in four starts this season after collecting 81 tackles and two interceptions across 17 games in 2024.
Hooker was a limited participant in Thursday’s practice as he works his way back from injury. The former first-round pick started the first four games of this season before getting hurt in Dallas’ 40-40 tie with Green Bay.
Ever since, Dallas has struggled mightily to fill Hooker’s position in the secondary. Juanyeh Thomas replaced him in Weeks 5 and 6 before he was sidelined with recurring migraines. Markquese Bell stepped in for Week 7, but the Cowboys’ other starting safety, Donovan Wilson, left that game with an elbow injury. That left undrafted rookie Alijah Clark in a tough spot for Week 8.
The constant turnover has been incredibly problematic for the Cowboys’ defense, which ranks 31st in both yards allowed (397.4) and points allowed (30.8). Across the NFL, only the Bengals have been scored on more frequently (33.3).
The Cowboys (3-5-1) are just 1-3 in their last four games. They will be in Las Vegas on Monday night to play the Raiders.
Also back at practice Thursday was Wilson, whose last appearance came in Week 7 against the Commanders. In addition to an elbow injury, the 30-year-old has been dealing with shoulder and knee issues.
Wilson has 36 tackles (21 solo) and two interceptions in seven games.
Hooker and Wilson ranked first and second on the team, respectively, in defensive snaps last season. Their return could drastically reshape a secondary that’s had to rely on unproven commodities for far too long.
In a moment that has sparked massive conversation across the sports world,
McCarthy, who has become one of college football’s brightest stars, was spotted attending an exclusive sports gala where athletes from multiple disciplines gathered. However, what transpired shortly after his arrival was something no one expected—JJ McCarthy, known for his leadership on the football field, graciously stood up and offered his seat to Reese, the LSU basketball standout, when she arrived at the venue.
“A Gesture of Respect and Support”
Angel Reese, who has made waves in college basketball for her impressive performances and on-court leadership, was initially taken aback by the gesture. “I’ve never had someone like JJ McCarthy do that for me,” Reese said, clearly moved. “It was just such a show of respect, and it made me feel so appreciated as an athlete, not just as a woman in sports.”
For McCarthy, the move was a simple act of respect toward a fellow athlete who has been breaking barriers in her sport. “It’s all about supporting each other,” McCarthy explained when asked about the moment. “Angel is an incredible athlete, and she deserves all the respect in the world. I think we all have a role in lifting each other up, no matter the sport or position. It’s about showing appreciation for the greatness of others.”
“The Power of Small Gestures”
While giving up a seat may seem like a small act, it has resonated deeply with fans and athletes alike. The sports world has been abuzz with praise for McCarthy, with many calling the gesture a powerful symbol of unity in a time when sports have become increasingly divided by gender and competition.
“At the end of the day, we’re all athletes trying to do our best and inspire others,” McCarthy continued. “I wanted to show Angel the kind of support that I believe every athlete deserves. It wasn’t about the spotlight; it was about respect and equality.”
The moment was captured on camera and quickly went viral across social media platforms, with fans praising both McCarthy and Reese for their sportsmanship. Former athletes, coaches, and sports commentators have joined in, calling it one of the most meaningful moments in recent sports history.
“Breaking Boundaries in Sports”
Reese, who has been one of the most dominant forces in NCAA basketball, is no stranger to challenging the status quo. From her relentless play on the court to her outspoken advocacy for women in sports, Reese has garnered a massive following. This gesture from McCarthy only added to her legacy, showing the world that support for female athletes is not just about words, but actions.
“JJ’s gesture was a reminder of how far we still need to go in terms of equality in sports, but also how much progress has been made,” Reese said. “It’s incredible to see male athletes like JJ McCarthy supporting women’s sports. It sets an example for the next generation of athletes, showing that we’re all in this together.”
“A Moment for Change”
In a world often divided by competition and egos, McCarthy’s small but meaningful action has shone a light on the power of unity in sports. It’s a reminder that respect for fellow athletes can transcend rivalries, gender, and sport, and that a simple act of kindness can leave a lasting impact.
As the sports world continues to evolve, this moment between JJ McCarthy and Angel Reese has become a symbol of progress and mutual respect. It serves as a powerful reminder that, in the end, athletes from all walks of life are united by their passion for their respective sports and their drive to make the world a better place through their platforms.