Cowboys Defensive Tackle Kenny Clark Voices Frustration, Suffers Potential Injury
– Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Kenny Clark publicly expressed his frustration with the team’s defensive struggles, just days before suffering a potential elbow injury during a Week 7 matchup against the Washington Commanders.
Through the first six weeks of the NFL season, the Cowboys’ defense had been underperforming, ranking near the bottom of the league in key statistical categories. Clark, who joined the team at the end of the preseason in a trade with the Green Bay Packers that included Micah Parsons, didn’t hesitate to call for greater accountability within the unit.
“Just the details of the defense,” Clark said, via DallasCowboys.com. “We went through everything. Holding each other accountable and focusing on the details of what we need to do. Everybody’s just looking in the mirror and figuring that stuff out.”
Clark acknowledged the frustration stemming from the team’s inability to consistently stop opposing running games. “Anytime somebody’s running the ball like that, it’s definitely frustrating. We’re all competitors and want to put our best foot out there. So anytime something like that happens, it’s frustrating.”
The Cowboys’ offense had been performing at a high level, but Clark emphasized that defensive improvements were crucial for sustained success. “Unless they are perfect, it is difficult to win when the defense isn’t getting a stop,” he reportedly stated.
Just over a week after voicing his concerns, Clark sustained an injury during the Cowboys’ Week 7 game against the Commanders. The injury occurred during a short touchdown run by Chris Rodriguez Jr. Clark was able to walk off the field slowly but was subsequently taken to the medical tent for evaluation.
Initial reports indicated an elbow injury, with his return to the game listed as questionable. The potential loss of Clark would be a significant blow to the Cowboys’ defensive line, as he has provided stability in the middle of the defense since arriving in Dallas.
According to reports, Clark’s ability to command attention from opposing offensive lines makes it easier for other defensive players to make plays. His absence would likely be felt by backups Mazi Smith and Jay Toia, who do not present the same level of disruption.
The acquisition of Clark was a notable move for the Cowboys, coming as part of a trade that sent Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. In a surprising turn of events, the Cowboys ultimately received Clark, Quinnen Williams, and an additional first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft in exchange for Parsons, a move that was described as “impressive” by some observers.
As of , the Cowboys’ 2025 season had concluded with the team failing to reach championship contention. Despite the trade for Clark and Williams, the team was still ironing out the details of defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus’ scheme six weeks into the season.
