Barham Clears Hurdle for Saturday
Rookie linebacker Jaishawn Barham is finally close to returning from that minor groin issue that kept him out last week. The Dallas Cowboys need fresh legs in their secondary, and this third-round pick has proven he can fill that void right now. Patrik Walker of The Voice of the Star reported that Barham is “close” to being cleared from his injury to play versus the Seattle Seahawks. This isn’t some long-term setback that would keep him out for the whole preseason. The team expects him to be back in pads very soon.
It’s a relief.
Jon Machota confirmed on August 13 that Barham is close to returning to practice, with a high probability of him suiting up next week. The injury began just last week but luckily isn’t something serious enough to cause significant missed action. Although Saturday’s preseason opener against Seattle could see Walker in action, the more likely scenario is his return at some point next week. Barham has been a standout during training camp up until this point, showing he can handle the speed of the NFL. His versatility allows him to play linebacker and also on the edge, which is exactly what he did at Michigan. Christian Parker’s defense boasts a young talent with immense potential for immediate impact, a quality this player possesses. Since he remains a rookie requiring game reps to adjust to the speed, the Cowboys might avoid rushing that process. Dallas views his imminent return to pads as a victory in itself.
Why This Boosts the Defense
The Cowboys defense needs every bit of depth it can get before the regular season starts. Barham’s return changes the dynamic because he offers a unique skill set that few other rookies possess. He can drop into coverage like a traditional linebacker or rush the passer like an edge defender. This flexibility is crucial for Christian Parker’s scheme, which relies on players who can adapt to different looks. If Barham plays Saturday, he gets vital reps against a tough Seattle offense. If he waits until next week, the team ensures he is fully ready without risking further injury. Either way, his presence elevates the entire unit. The coaching staff will likely limit his snaps if he does play Saturday, focusing on getting his timing back rather than burning him out. This cautious approach makes sense for a third-round pick who has already shown flashes of brilliance in camp.
Imagine the coverage options we could run with him on the field.
That versatility gives Parker real freedom to disguise his blitz packages without losing his mind trying to find the right personnel groupings.
Next Step: The Seattle Game
The Cowboys face the Seattle Seahawks in the preseason opener on Saturday. Barham’s status for this specific game remains the key question for fans and analysts alike. Patrik Walker indicated that while he is close to clearance, the final decision rests on his performance in practice leading up to the game. Fans should watch for any updates from the team regarding his activation for Saturday’s matchup.
