A bad game, even worse news: Two Cowboys starters are out with injuries after the Week 1 disaster

The Dallas Cowboys couldn't have asked for a much rougher opening to the new NFL season. Dallas suffered a 28-20 loss to the New York Giants on Sunday, and the disappointing result was made even worse by injury concerns involving two defensive starters.

Dak Prescott finished the game 22-of-34 passing for 175 yards, two touchdowns and one interception while also adding 14 yards on two carries.

Running back Javonte Williams provided one of the few bright spots for Dallas, rushing for 41 yards on 12 attempts while scoring a touchdown. He also contributed five receptions for 31 yards and another score.

Those individual performances weren't enough to prevent Dallas from beginning the season with a loss to a division rival. The Cowboys' defensive struggles were especially concerning, and the situation became more complicated when injuries forced two key players out of the contest.

Malik Hooker was the first major concern. The veteran safety left the game late in the third quarter after suffering a forearm injury and wasn't able to return. He finished the night with one solo tackle.

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer provided an unsettling update after the game, saying Hooker might have fractured his forearm. The veteran will need further evaluation to determine the full extent of the injury, but a fracture would likely mean an extended absence.

Given the Dallas defense already had plenty to answer for after surrendering 28 points, losing an experienced safety could create another significant challenge.

Cowboys' defensive depth faces an early test

The injury situation became even more concerning when linebacker DeMarvion Overshown was forced out in the fourth quarter with a hamstring problem.

Overshown appeared to suffer the injury after tripping over a Giants player during a running play. Although he was able to leave the field under his own power, he didn't return to the game.

Schottenheimer said after the contest that the Cowboys didn't yet know the severity of Overshown's injury. The linebacker was expected to undergo additional testing Monday, which should provide a clearer picture of whether he'll be available for Week 2 or could face a longer absence.

That's particularly significant because Overshown has already dealt with serious injuries during his career. If he misses time, Dallas could be forced to rely more heavily on its younger linebackers. Rookie Jaishawn Barham could see his responsibilities increase, while Shemar James could also receive additional defensive snaps.

The Cowboys could also explore outside options if Overshown's injury proves serious. Dallas has players such as Justin Barron and Curtis Robinson available for depth, but the team could consider the trade or free-agent markets if it believes another experienced linebacker is needed.

The same applies to the safety position. If Hooker is sidelined, P.J. Locke could be asked to fill his role, while Markquese Bell or Alijah Clark could see increased opportunities.

Dallas has to wait for more definitive medical information. The Cowboys will host the Washington Commanders in Week 2, with kickoff scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET on Sept. 20.

After an ugly season opener, Dallas desperately needs a response. Before that can happen, though, the Cowboys need to know exactly how much their defense has been weakened by Sunday's injuries.