Dallas Cowboys safety Markquese Bell appeared to sustain a serious arm injury during Monday night’s game against the Houston Texans.
Initially believed to be a broken arm, the injury was later diagnosed as a shoulder issue. Bell’s return was listed as questionable as the Cowboys faced a 17-7 halftime deficit.
The injury occurred early in the second quarter with 14:51 remaining. Bell extended his arm for a one-armed tackle on Texans running back Dameon Pierce, who was regaining possession of a bobbled ball. Bell’s arm hyperextended awkwardly, leaving him writhing on the field as Pierce gained five yards.
The severity was immediately clear as Bell clutched his injured arm in pain. Medical staff treated him on the field and took him to the medical tent. ESPN later confirmed the injury as a shoulder issue, ruling him out indefinitely.
Fans expressed concern for the 25-year-old safety on social media. One fan wrote, “Terrible arm/shoulder injury for Cowboys player Markquese Bell. Wishing a speedy recovery.” Another added, “Did that Cowboys player’s arm just swing all the way backward? Unbelievable.”
Bell’s injury compounded the Cowboys’ struggles as their defense faltered. Houston gained 80 rushing yards in the first half, scoring two touchdowns in the opening quarter. Dallas trailed by seven at halftime.
The Cowboys ended their home scoring drought with a 64-yard touchdown pass from backup quarterback Cooper Rush to wide receiver KaVontae Turpin. It marked their first home touchdown since September 22. Rush filled in for Dak Prescott, who is on injured reserve and used crutches during pregame warmups.
The Cowboys remain winless at home this season.
Tight end Jake Ferguson also left the game early with a concussion, being ruled out just six minutes into the first quarter. His exit frustrated fantasy football players who had placed bets on his performance.
In response, Fanatics Sportsbook refunded bettors with Ferguson prop bets and voided affected parlays. They cited “fair play regulations” in a statement on social media.
Dallas, now 3-6 overall and 0-4 at home, continues to face challenges on and off the field. Despite the setbacks, players remain optimistic.
“Each week brings a new chance for change, good or bad,” cornerback Jourdan Lewis said before the game. “We can’t act like everything is falling apart.”
