As strange as it may sound, a complete tear of the plantar fascia is much milder than a partial tear or contusion, easier to manage from a pain standpoint, and can be sustained by a player for several weeks. No need to leave the front lines.
Asked if that was really a glimmer of hope for Smith, McCarthy nodded.
“I agree with that [that] Explanation,” McCarthy added.
This means that even if the Cowboys choose to rest Smith in Week 18 — especially considering the game is outdoors, he is expected to score in the low 30s at kickoff — for now. That means there's a very good chance he'll be able to take the field in the NFL. Super wild card weekend.
As for Hankins, the news is just as positive, if not more so. The veteran run-stopper has missed the past three games with a sprained ankle suffered in a blowout win against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 14, but is trending well for the playoffs and, like Smith, will be joining the Commanders. There is also a fighting chance.
“Jonathan trained well. [on Monday]”We'll see how he feels tomorrow, but our goal is to have him practice on Wednesday — that's our hope,” McCarthy said.
Of course, it's possible that Coach McCarthy will give Hankins another week of rest and rehabilitation, but that will be determined as the coming days pass.
As mentioned, the Cowboys have a lot to play for in Washington, including having one last chance to iron out road woes before playing in the tournament.
It's also true that this reality must be balanced with the importance of getting Smith and Hankins back to full speed within two weeks.
