The Dallas Cowboys opened the 21-day practice windows for Jonathan Mingo and Caelen Carson as they return from injured reserve, signaling a controlled path back for both players. Activation can come at any point within the window; if they aren’t active, they revert to season-ending IR or could be released or traded. Mingo suffered a sprained PCL in his right knee in the preseason vs Baltimore, while Carson had a hyperextended knee in July.

Cowboys weigh IR-return options four weeks in; Caelen Carson, Phil Mafah, Jonathan Mingo, and Payton Turner are eligible to begin the 21‑day practice window, with activation possible at any point. Shavon Revel Jr. is also cleared to be activated from the Non‑Football Injury list after ACL rehab.

Lamb and Booker aren’t slated for IR but their availability remains uncertain after high ankle sprains. With Malik Hooker sidelined, Juanyeh Thomas is primed for expanded safety duties as Dallas eyes a Week 5 clash with the Jets. Guyton and Miles Sanders could return to face New York, while Revel’s knee remains a watch item.

Team decision timelines will shape which players step in, and fantasy managers should monitor practice reports for concrete activation news and snap expectations before Game Day.