Mike McCarthy press conference: Coach praises Donovan Wilson, notes the challenge of Jalen Hurts

On this Christmas Eve, the Cowboys are till prepping for their game on Sunday with the Eagles. Head coach Mike McCarthy met with the media to answer questions about the team as they try to stay in the playoff hunt. (All answers are paraphrased and not actual quotes).

Donovan Wilson opportunity

Coach noted anytime a player rises through special teams, then takes a full opportunity on defense or offense, that is what you are looking for. He said it’s about the player taking advantage, that’s what Donovan has done, he’s been impactful.

Stability on the offensive line

McCarthy noted that Joe Looney at center has been a point of stability through his leadership, communication skills, and energy. He also gave kudos to Connor Williams for his availability and said that he thought Connor’s finest performance was against the San Francisco 49ers last week. He praised the other guys and noted that Connor McGovern is improving each week.

Eagles scheme/Jalen Hurts mobility

McCarthy said Hurts’ mobility isn’t exactly the same thing as going up against Lamar Jackson, but that they are definitely paying close attention to Jalen’s abilities to get out of the pocket.

Injuries

McCarthy noted that Zeke is in a limited practice mode on Thursday.

Xavier Woods and Antwaun Woods will not practice per the head coach. Blake Bell won’t practice as he is dealing with an illness. McCarthy noted he anticipates Bell being okay for the game.

Schedule changes

The head coach said on Wednesday that he would be adjusting the team’s schedule in order to allow them to be home for Christmas. He said that Saturday will be longer than a normal Saturday to work with this idea.

UDFA rookies having a chance beyond this year

Asked if some of the UDFA rookies could be more than just fill-ins for injury this year, McCarthy said you never want to sell a player short. He feels like a young player, once you get through the second year, they need to take a leap forward in their second year of opportunity, once they go through a normal training camp and offseason. After that second year, you have an idea of who they are.

Cross-training corners at safety

Coach was asked about having some corners play safety if needed this week and he said it’s possible and that they have been cross-training certain corners to do that all year. He said it is no different that other positions that are stressed by injury and it’s something they’ve had to do on the offensive line.