Key Cowboys starting DB 'unexpected omission' from practice Wednesday

The Dallas Cowboys returned to practice on Wednesday, with only one unexpected absence from the open session, which was a key starter in the secondary.

Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker during training camp at Marriott Residence Inn-River Ridge playing fields. | Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys returned to action on Wednesday afternoon, with a spirited session at The Star as the team began ramping up its preparations for a Week 15 showdown with the Minnesota Vikings.

Dallas will host Minnesota at AT&T Stadium on Sunday Night Football, so it's another primetime appearance for America's Team.

With the team returning to the practice field, several key starters were participating in drills as they work their way back from injury. However, media on the scene reported there was one "unexpected absence."

MORE: Trevon Diggs injury update comes with concerning choice of words from Schottenheimer

According to Joseph Hoyt of the Dallas Morning News, starting safety Malik Hooker was not on the field, but there's no reason to panic.

Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker celebrates with teammates after making an interception against the Houston Texans | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Hoyt reported Hooker "had some veteran days recently, so not too shocking, but notable. We’ll see the exact reason later." It is very possible that Hooker was just taking the day off and his status for Week 15 will not be in jeopardy.

The team will avoid its official practice report on Wednesday evening, so there will be clarity about his absence once that is officially revealed.

Hooker's presence in the secondary would be a major win for the Cowboys, who face off against a Vikings offense that leads the league in interceptions thrown. Kickoff between the two teams is set for 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.

Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth will call Sunday night's action, with Melissa Stark sharing updates from the sidelines throughout the broadcast.

MORE: Former Cowboys star shares brutal truth on team's NFL playoff chances

---

Dallas Cowboys at Minnesota Vikings TV & viewing info

A general view of the Sunday Night Football banner prior to the game between the New York Giants and Buffalo Bills | Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Date: Sunday, December 14
Start Time: 8:20 p.m. ET
Location: Arlington, Texas
Venue: AT&T Stadium
TV Channel: NBC and Peacock

Betting Odds: Cowboys -5.5 | O/U: 48.5

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

— Sign up for the Cowboys Daily Digest newsletter for more free coverage from Dallas Cowboys on SI —

Cowboys' NFL power rankings roundup after Week 14 sees Dallas in stalemate

NFC East power rankings: Eagles’ free fall gives Cowboys renewed hope

Cowboys-Vikings opening Week 15 odds paint promising picture for Dallas

New Cowboys' 2026 mock draft lands son of Super Bowl champ, Trevon Diggs replacement 

'Excited' Jerry Jones discusses Cowboys' NFL playoff hopes 

Meet Kleine Powell: Star of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Netflix doc