Dallas Cowboys expected to have key offensive playmaker back vs. Bengals

A key offensive playmaker is expected back on the field against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 14.

Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson runs after a catch against the Atlanta Falcons. / Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys have been welcoming people back from injury in recent weeks and it has paid off with back-to-back wins entering December.

As the team prepares for a Monday Night Football showdown with the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 14, another All-Pro playmaker is expected to return to the field.

Star tight end Jake Ferguson, who has missed the past two games with a concussion, was back on the practice field Thursday.

MORE: Dallas Cowboys star CeeDee Lamb's shoulder still causing issues

Ferguson cleared concussion protocol and is on track to play on Monday night.

Jake Ferguson has cleared concussion protocol and is expected back for #Cowboys vs. #Bengals.

He missed the last two outings. pic.twitter.com/7mwqSwarbM

— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) December 5, 2024

Ferguson had high hopes entering the 2024-25 NFL campaign after a breakout sophomore performance a season ago, but injuries have held him back.

Ferguson has just 43 catches for 369 yards and zero touchdowns on the season.

In Ferguson's absence, 2023 second-round pick Luke Schoonmaker has stepped up for the Cowboys. Schoolmaker has at least 3 catches and 33 yards in each of his previous three outings.

Dallas Cowboys tight end Luke Schoonmaker catches a touchdown pass against the Washington Commanders. / Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

During that stretch, Schoonmaker has recorded 14 catches for 144 yards and one touchdown.

While it has been admirable production, there is no denying the impact Ferguson has on the team's offense when he is healthy -- especially on the field at the same time with as CeeDee Lamb. So, we could once again see an evolved version of the team's offense in Week 14.

The Cowboys and Bengals face off on Monday, December 9, at 8:15 p.m. ET. The game will also stream on Disney+ with a special Simpsons broadcast.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on SI —

Cowboys vs. Bengals: 3 keys to victory for NFL Week 14 MNF

5 Cowboys pending free agents who have earned an extension

4 great players not named Ashton Jeanty Cowboys could target in 2025 NFL Draft

Where would the Cowboys pick in the NFL Draft after Week 13?

Meet Abby Summers: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Rookie