The Dallas Cowboys, typically a powerhouse in the NFC East with three consecutive 12-5 finishes, now find themselves at 3-5 as they head into the second half of a season plagued by injuries.

At the trade deadline, Dallas opted for both strategic acquisitions and releases, bringing in wide receiver Jonathan Mingo from the Carolina Panthers in controversial exchange for a 2025 fourth-round pick. However, they also parted ways with cornerback Andrew Booth and defensive tackle Jordan Phillips.

In an unexpected but swift move, Dallas re-signed Booth to the practice squad, bolstering depth in a secondary that has struggled to stay healthy. Meanwhile, Phillips secured a spot with the Buffalo Bills. Booth, originally acquired from the Minnesota Vikings during training camp, now returns as the Cowboys fight to stay competitive in a difficult season.

The injury report for Dallas has only grown, with a total of 14 key injuries this season and nine players on injured reserve. Recent losses include quarterback Dak Prescott, whose hamstring injury could keep him sidelined long-term, pushing Cooper Rush into the starting role.

The Cowboys are also without No. 2 receiver Brandin Cooks, and pass rushers DeMarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons have missed multiple games, though Parsons is expected to return soon. Head coach Mike McCarthy is hoping Parsons' presence can provide the morale boost this team sorely needs as they work to avoid a steep drop from their recent winning records.

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While Dallas hopes to regain stability in their lineup, their re-signing of Booth reflects a larger strategy to keep depth intact. With a string of tough matchups on the horizon, the Cowboys face an uphill battle to stay in playoff contention, relying on resilience and adaptability in the face of continued adversity.