The Dallas Cowboys' defense didn't look great in the 28-20 Week 1 loss to the New York Giants. With the club scheduled to take on the Washington Commanders in Week 2, the defensive woes may continue due to the injury updates for Malik Hooker and DeMarvion Overshown.

Reports indicate that both defenders are officially ruled out, via SleeperCowboys. Hooker is dealing with a forearm injury, while Overshown is suffering from a hamstring issue. That's two starters from the Cowboys' defense missing for the game against the Commanders.

“Cowboys have officially ruled out S Malik Hooker (forearm) and LB DeMarvion Overshown (hamstring) against the Washington Commanders,” the report said.

Hooker appeared in Week 1, but the 30-year-old only managed to record one tackle. Dallas will likely turn to PJ Locke at the free safety position while Malik Hooker deals with his forearm injury. Through 113 career games, the 10-year veteran has recorded 414 combined tackles (262 solo), 14 interceptions, 25 pass deflections, and four fumble recoveries.

Overshown, on the other hand, was much more active in Week 1, finishing the contest with seven combined tackles (one solo). Injuries have limited the 26-year-old linebacker early in his career, as he only played six games in the 2025-26 campaign due to a severe right knee injury. The Cowboys will likely have to start rookie linebacker Jaishawn Barham in DeMarvion Overshown's place on Sunday.

Although the injury concerns are not great news for the franchise, the Week 2 matchup against Miami is a chance for Dallas to right the ship defensively. The Dolphins are a young, rebuilding team, while the Cowboys are viewed as a potential playoff contender. That is, if the defense can get its act together.