Cowboys' 2025 breakout star has helped ease loss of Micah Parsons
The Dallas Cowboys bounced back in a big way during Week 5 of the NFL season, scoring a dominant victory over the New York Jets, with strong efforts on both sides of the ball.
A shining moment for the Cowboys this season has been the emergence of several offseason additions.
On offense, star wide receiver George Pickens and running back Javonte Williams have both stepped up in a big way, while an unexpected defensive star is having a breakout season that has helped the team's pass rush find success following the Micah Parsons trade.
Dallas signed journeyman defensive end James Houston, who has exceeded expectations throughout the first five weeks.
"By no means has the 26-year-old journeyman replaced Micah Parsons, but he's got 3.5 sacks in his last four games and his impact has gone beyond that on the edge in Dallas," Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report writes.
Along with his 3.5 sacks, Houston has recorded a forced fumble, fumble recovery, and two run stuffs. Parsons, meanwhile, has 2.5 sacks.
It will be interesting to see if Houston can continue to perform at a high level as the season continues, because he has proven to be a key part of the defense. Without Houston, the Cowboys' pass rush would be virtually nonexistent.
Allen Lazard won’t play for Jets this week, Michael Carter likely out as well
The Jets will not have wide receiver Allen Lazard in the lineup for Sunday’s game against the Broncos in London.
Head coach Aaron Glenn said in a press conference from London on Wednesday that Lazard did not travel with the team. Glenn cited a personal issue for why Lazard is not on the trip and is out for Sunday.
Lazard has four catches for 24 yards and a touchdown this season.
Glenn said earlier this week that cornerback Michael Carter would not travel with the Jets because he was in the concussion protocol, but left the door open for him to meet the team in England. Glenn said on Wednesday that is unlikely to happen and that the team is planning to be without Carter this weekend.
