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Cowboys Activate Butler Amid Injury Concerns for Chargers Match

12/18/2025

29 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Dallas Cowboys activated Josh Butler, Dallas Cowboys cornerback, for a practice window as the team nears end of 2025 season.
Payton Turner, Cowboys defensive end and 2021 first-round pick, has not played this season due to a rib injury.
Phil Mafah, Cowboys rookie running back, has been sidelined with a shoulder injury.
Schottenheimer said the evaluation could shape roster decisions ahead of Cowboys' game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

History

Historical Context

The NFL expanded to 30 teams in 1993, enhancing competition and player opportunities. This expansion followed the league's growth from its 1920 inception with 14 teams, driven by relocations and mergers, including the significant 1970 merger with the AFL. Today, injuries to players like Payton Turner and Phil Mafah reflect ongoing challenges in maintaining competitive rosters within the league.

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Story summary

The Dallas Cowboys activated Josh Butler, Dallas Cowboys cornerback, for a practice window as the team nears end of 2025 season.
Payton Turner, Cowboys defensive end and 2021 first-round pick, has not played this season due to a rib injury.
Phil Mafah, Cowboys rookie running back, has been sidelined with a shoulder injury.
Schottenheimer said the evaluation could shape roster decisions ahead of Cowboys' game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

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