The Dallas Cowboys are preparing for a visit to Houston with major questions in the secondary and along the defensive front. Jonathan Bullard is expected to miss three to five weeks with a calf injury, while safety Jalen Thompson is facing an absence of at least four weeks because of a hamstring problem.
Both injuries occurred during Dallas' loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Rio. Thompson may be placed on injured reserve with an option to return, joining safety P.J. Locke. Bullard had been unavailable for much of training camp because of a previous injury.
Cornerback Shavon Revel is recovering from knee and ankle problems, but coach Brian Schottenheimer said Revel was doing well and might practice this week. His availability for the game against Houston has not been confirmed. Dallas also does not expect Cobie Durant to make the trip while he recovers from a hamstring injury.
Malik Hooker may need more time after breaking his forearm in the opener, while DeMarvion Overshown could practice again after missing two games. The Cowboys have worked out several players, including former safety Juanyeh Thomas, as first-year defensive coordinator Christian Parker manages a depleted safety unit.
