It seems like it will be a little while longer until DeMarcus Lawrence returns.

The Dallas Cowboys have been decimated along the defensive line this season by injuries. Veteran end DeMarcus Lawrence was one of them; he was placed on injured reserve after suffering a Lisfranc injury to his right foot in Week 4 against the New York Giants. He’s been eligible to return since November 10. Although it wasn’t out of the question, Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones deemed him a “long shot” to play on Monday Night Football against the Cincinnati Bengals, but also said he’d expect him back sooner than later.

It doesn’t appear that it will happen for a little while longer. Lawrence stated that not only will he not suit up against the Bengals, but he’ll miss the Cowboys Week 15 matchup with the Carolina Panthers.

This isn’t unfamiliar territory for Lawrence. Back in 2021, he was in a contract year and missed 10 games with a broken foot. In March of 2022, Lawrence signed a three-year deal for $40 million with $30 million in guaranteed money. Now, the former second-round pick is in the final year of his current deal, and he should have plenty of suitors which means the Cowboys will have to battle for his services.

Lawrence doesn’t plan on hanging up the cleats. However, it isn’t a guarantee that he’ll be in Dallas in 2025, especially with the Cowboys having to pay All-Pro Micah Parsons soon. Lawrence isn’t a sack machine, but he’s arguably to best run defender on the edge in the NFL, which can keep offenses behind the chains and set up guys like Parsons to rush the quarterback on third downs.

There’s no telling where the 5-7 Cowboys will be in a few weeks in terms of the playoff picture. One thing is certain, Dallas could use Lawrence’s presence and leadership while they try to pull off a miracle.