The Dallas Cowboys will head into Indianapolis with a different outlook at outside linebacker. Malachi Lawrence went on injured reserve Saturday, while Marist Liufau was activated from injured reserve, giving Dallas a returning option as another defender begins an extended absence.

Lawrence’s ankle injury will keep him out for at least four games. The earliest he could return is the Week 13 matchup against Seattle, though eligibility isn’t a promise that he’ll be healthy enough to play then.

Liufau Returns To The Roster

Liufau’s activation gives Dallas a chance to use him for the first time this regular season. His place on the active roster is now confirmed; whether he’s included in Sunday’s game-day lineup remains a separate decision.

That’s an important distinction for a defense managing several moving parts. A returning player can expand the coaches’ choices, but activation alone doesn’t establish a starting role, workload or direct replacement assignment.

The move also turns Lawrence’s earlier injury uncertainty into a defined minimum absence. Dallas can no longer plan on a quick return from the rookie as it organizes the next several weeks of its defensive rotation.

The Cowboys had already received better news in the secondary, with Caleb Downs and P.J. Locke clearing concussion protocol. Saturday’s linebacker transactions add another layer to a week spent sorting availability.

Hudson And Mitchell Add Offensive Options

Dallas also elevated receiver Jordan Hudson and tight end James Mitchell from the practice squad. For Hudson, the rookie from SMU, it’s his first elevation of the season. Mitchell was elevated for a second consecutive week after recovering a fumble for a touchdown against Arizona.

Those additions address positions where Dallas still has questions. KaVontae Turpin is out with a rib injury, while George Pickens is questionable. Tight ends Jake Ferguson and Luke Schoonmaker are also questionable.

The elevations give the offense alternatives without settling those players’ final availability. They shouldn’t be read as confirmation that every questionable receiver or tight end will sit out.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Bullard, meanwhile, will remain on injured reserve and has been ruled out against the Colts.

The weekend moves offer options while leaving Dallas to settle its game-day lineup.

Featured photo: Archival library image of Shemar James Sr. against Philadelphia; it doesn’t depict Saturday’s roster moves.