Why is CeeDee Lamb not playing today? Cowboys WR's status revealed for Week 17

Dallas Cowboys' CeeDee Lamb is one of the top three wide receivers in the NFL. Since entering the league, Lamb has racked up four 1,000-yard seasons, and he's the primary offensive weapon for "America's Team." Lamb has been a bright spot on an inconsistent Cowboys team in the 2024 regular season.

Let's examine the reason behind Lamb's absence ahead of his team's Week 17 game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.

Why is CeeDee Lamb not playing today?

According to CBS Sports, the Dallas Cowboys have ruled out CeeDee Lamb for the rest of the season. The perennial Pro Bowler aggravated an AC joint sprain in his shoulder in their Week 16 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Thus, the Cowboys have placed him on injured reserve, ruling him out for the foreseeable future. Lamb will watch from the sidelines as his teammates attempt to postpone the Eagles' coronation as NFC East division champs.

Lamb isn't the only Cowboys player set to miss their game against the Eagles. Defensive back Kemon Hall is out due to a hamstring injury, and cornerback Amani Oruwariye will sit out because of a foot issue. Furthermore, guard TJ Bass is doubtful, while Eric Kendricks, Jalen Tolbert, Asim Richards, Chuma Edoga, Donovan Wilson and Jalen Brooks are questionable.

How has CeeDee Lamb performed this season?

CeeDee Lamb was on track for another All-Pro caliber season before he got placed on the injured reserve. The superstar wide receiver showcased his elite mentality as he caught passes from Dak Prescott and Cooper Rush in a difficult season for everyone affiliated with the Dallas Cowboys.

Lamb amassed a stat line of 101 receptions, 1,194 receiving yards and six touchdowns. At the time of his addition to the IR, he was third in receptions and receiving yards in the league. Lamb will likely be named to his fourth Pro Bowl, as there haven't been many wide receivers as dominant as him in the regular season.

The Cowboys enter today's game with a 7-8 record. They've been eliminated from playoff contention and are playing for pride to end the season with a winning record. The Cowboys will have their work cut out against a stacked Philadelphia Eagles roster eager for a win to earn another division title.

It'll be interesting to see how Mike McCarthy deals with the absence of his best player in a game against an NFC powerhouse.