The Dallas Cowboys are facing a challenging moment in their 2025 season as dynamic wide receiver and All-Pro kick returner KaVontae Turpin is likely to miss their Week 6 matchup against the Carolina Panthers due to a lingering foot injury. Turpin, who has emerged as a key offensive weapon under coach Brian Schottenheimer, confirmed his status as “day to day” and expressed doubts about playing this weekend, targeting a return for the following game against the Washington Commanders.
Turpin’s Growing Role in the Cowboys’ Offense
KaVontae Turpin has been a revelation for the Cowboys in 2025, transitioning from a primarily special teams role to a versatile gadget player on offense. After playing just 62 offensive snaps as a rookie, 140 in his second year, and 315 last season, Turpin is on pace to surpass those numbers significantly. This season, he has already logged 133 offensive snaps despite missing Week 5 due to his foot injury. His contributions include 11 receptions on 13 targets for 159 yards and six carries for 23 yards out of the backfield.
Turpin’s impact has earned him a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 75.6, ranking him 19th among 125 NFL receivers this season. His ability to stretch defenses and create explosive plays has been a bright spot for Dallas, making his absence a significant blow.
Injury Woes Continue for Dallas
Turpin’s uncertain status adds to the Cowboys’ growing injury concerns. On Wednesday, the team reported that 10 players, including six starters, were limited in practice. While Turpin was spotted without a walking boot—a positive sign for his recovery—he remains unlikely to suit up for the Panthers game. The Cowboys’ coaching staff, led by Schottenheimer, remains cautiously optimistic about getting other players back but acknowledges the uncertainty.
“There’s guys moving around better,” Schottenheimer told reporters. “I think as the week goes, there’s a few guys that you might be able to get back. But it’s hit and miss, and today is a day you’re probably seeing more guys on the grass, and being on the grass doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re cleared to play.”
Turpin’s Own Words: Aiming for Week 7
According to the Cowboys’ team website, Turpin’s return is expected to take “at least another week.” The player himself was candid about his recovery timeline. In a statement reported by Joseph Hoyt of the Dallas Morning News on Twitter/X, Turpin said, “Probably not,” when asked about playing on Sunday, adding that he is targeting a return for the home game against the Washington Commanders in Week 7. The injury, identified as a foot sprain sustained against Green Bay, continues to hinder his progress.
With Turpin sidelined, the Cowboys will need to rely on their depth to fill the void against a Panthers team looking to capitalize on Dallas’ injury-riddled roster. The team’s ability to adapt without one of their most dynamic playmakers will be critical as they aim to stay competitive in the NFC East.
As the Cowboys navigate this crisis, fans are left hoping that Turpin’s recovery stays on track for Week 7 and that other injured players can return to bolster the lineup. For now, Dallas faces a tough road ahead in Week 6 without their versatile star.
