Jake Ferguson’s Comeback: Will Injuries Derail 2025 Season?

FRISCO, Texas — Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson is embarking on a critical 2025 season after an inconsistent previous year marred by injuries. Coming off a promising 2023 campaign where he amassed 761 yards and five touchdowns, expectations were high for Ferguson to become one of the league’s top tight ends.

However, Ferguson’s 2024 season took a downturn when he suffered a knee injury in the season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After sitting out one game, he returned to play only six games throughout the season due to multiple injuries, including a concussion.

As the Cowboys gear up for the upcoming season, the team has undergone significant coaching changes. With Brian Schottenheimer stepping in as head coach and play-caller following Mike McCarthy‘s departure, the Cowboys aim for redemption. New offensive coordinator Klayton Adams is also keen on revitalizing the team’s strategy.

TE Coach Lunda Wells expressed cautious optimism regarding Ferguson’s recovery, particularly in light of his recent injuries. In a recent promotional video titled “Lunda Wells: Dominate the Line of Scrimmage | Dallas Cowboys 2025,” Wells elaborated, “We really got to do a nice job this offseason, building some real good calluses on your body so that it can really handle the way that he plays the game.”

Wells emphasized the importance of Ferguson taking care of his body and recovering mentally from the setbacks, stating, “So that was a tough year for him. The biggest thing is just getting back on the horse, taking care of your body, and putting your best foot forward this coming offseason to prepare you for the season.”

Ferguson returned to practice during Week 14 of the previous season after clearing concussion protocols, yet the absence of key players due to injuries severely impacted the offense. The team’s dynamics changed with Ferguson on the sidelines, forcing backup Luke Schoonmaker to assume increased responsibilities.

Heading into 2025, expectations surrounding Ferguson remain high as he seeks a healthy return. The team’s offensive strategy is shifting, with Schottenheimer emphasizing a strong rushing attack. Adams has made it clear he supports Schottenheimer’s vision, noting, “He’s going to call the plays, and I think it would be dumb on my part to try to force things on that call sheet that he doesn’t want to call.”

In a CBS Sports article from September 2024, Schottenheimer reaffirmed his faith in Ferguson’s abilities, stating, “Fergie really can help us big time, both run and pass.” With Ferguson’s dual-threat capabilities as a receiver and a blocker being crucial for the Cowboys’ success, 2025 could be a pivotal year for him and the team as they aim for a successful season.