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Brown and black wilson football Dave Adamson/Unsplash

Wide receiver Parris Campbell has been ruled out for the entire 2025 NFL season after sustaining a significant knee injury during the Dallas Cowboys' training camp. The team officially placed Campbell on season-ending injured reserve on Sunday, 3 August, after he suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament (MCL) in practice at the team's Oxnard, California facility.

Details of Campbell's Injury and IR Placement

The Cowboys confirmed that Campbell's injury involved an MCL sprain, typically requiring a recovery window of 6–10 weeks. However, due to roster constraints and the nature of NFL injury management, the team opted to place the 28-year-old wideout on season-ending injured reserve. The move officially ends his 2025 season, as players placed on this list before final roster cuts are not eligible to return.

While the team has not released further medical details, including whether surgery will be required, no reports to date have indicated that surgical intervention is planned. The Cowboys have yet to provide updates on his recovery plan.

Injury-Prone Past Continues to Impact Campbell's Career

This setback marks another chapter in a career repeatedly disrupted by injuries. Since being drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Campbell has battled multiple long-term health issues. His rookie year was limited to seven games due to an abdominal injury and a broken hand. In 2020, he tore both his MCL and PCL during Week 2, missing the remainder of the season.

Although he enjoyed a healthy and productive season in 2022 with the Colts, playing all 17 games and posting 623 receiving yards, 63 receptions and 3 touchdowns, his 2023 stint with the Philadelphia Eagles saw limited usage. Campbell was released before the end of the season and later signed by Dallas, where he was expected to compete for a depth role in the receiver rotation.

Cowboys' WR Depth Chart Adjusts Following Injury

Campbell's absence creates an immediate vacancy in the Cowboys' wide receiver depth. While CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens remain the undisputed starters, competition for supporting roles had been intense during camp. Campbell was expected to challenge for the WR4 position, potentially as a slot or gadget option.

Following his injury, players like Jalen Tolbert, KaVontae Turpin and rookie Ryan Flournoy may see increased reps. The team could also explore veteran free agent receivers as insurance ahead of final roster cuts.

Mixed Reaction from Cowboys Fans and NFL Analysts

Fans reacted swiftly on social media, expressing disappointment over Campbell's unavailability. Many highlighted his history of bad luck with injuries, while others criticised the Cowboys' decision to sign a player with an extensive injury record. NFL analysts have also raised questions about the Cowboys' off-season depth strategy.

Beat reporters covering the team noted that Campbell had impressed early in camp with his speed and route sharpness, and his sudden loss is seen as a blow to overall training camp momentum.

Contract Implications and Future Outlook

Campbell's one-year deal with Dallas included minimal guarantees, with performance incentives tied to active game participation. His placement on IR prevents him from hitting those targets. At 28 years old and with a pattern of injury setbacks, Campbell's future in the league remains uncertain.

The Cowboys have yet to announce a corresponding roster move.

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