Full-Scale Dallas Cowboys Injury Update, and More NFC East News

Usually, there's one particular news item that stands out enough to get top billing in this post, but I noticed on Tuesday that there were a slew of very important injury updates relating specifically to the Dallas Cowboys.

Let's break it down.

Good news first, as Jason Garrett is "more optimistic" than expected regarding Phil Costa's ankle injury, according to Jimmy Burch of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. He even left open the possibility that Costa could suit up against the New York Giants this week.

But the backfield continues to take hits, as it was revealed Monday that Felix Jones now has a bruised left knee, per Brandon George of the Dallas Morning News. George also suggests that Phillip Tanner could see an increased workload versus New York. That's because, according to Barry Horn of the same publication, DeMarco Murray's status is still up in the air.

Maybe most importantly, that sprained big toe has Sean Lee on crutches, according to George, and his status is also a complete mystery. This is the big one to watch, because there are few players the Cowboys can afford to lose less than Lee.

On to what else is being talked about in the league's most popular division:

Dallas Cowboys

ESPNDallas.com's Tim MacMahon details what was almost another disastrous play from Dez Bryant.

Jonathan Bales of DallasCowboys.com thinks the Cowboys need to start going deep more often.

New York Giants

From Mark Cannizzaro of the New York Post: Ahmad Bradshaw's teammates are cool with what happened Sunday when Bradshaw lost his temper on the sideline.

From Ebenezer Samuel of the New York Daily News: Hakeem Nicks says his foot continues to improve, and he's regaining confidence. 

Philadelphia Eagles

CSN Philly's Reuben Frank reports that the Eagles are going back to King Dunlap at left tackle. I said before the season that Dunlap and Demetress Bell would both get plenty of work, so this isn't a surprise.

From PhillyMag.com's Sheil Kapadia: Mike Patterson is ready to return and believes he can make an impact on the crowded Eagles defensive line.

Washington Redskins

From Stephen Whyno of the Washington Times: No clear timetable still for Pierre Garcon. What a shame.

Mike Jones of the Washington Post reports that London Fletcher's status will remain in the air until Wednesday at the earliest.