The Dallas Cowboys defense could get even worse after losing a starter for the Week 5 game in the 2025 National Football League (NFL) season where they will play the New York Jets on Sunday, October 5, 2025.

The Dallas Cowboys have placed a starting cornerback on the injured reserve list in what has been a difficult start to the season for the Cowboys’ secondary, which in four games has allowed 1,189 passing yards, the highest figure in the league, which has made it feel even worse is the alarming number of big plays allowed.

Dallas Cowboys defense could get even worse after losing a starter

Unfortunately, that could still be a problem with one of their best cornerbacks being placed on the injured list this weekend. Malik Hooker, who suffered a toe injury during the draw with the Green Bay Packers, was placed on the injured list on Saturday, October 4, 2025, and will miss the next four games.

The #Cowboys have placed starting safety Malik Hooker on injured reserve with a toe injury. He’ll miss the next four games.

Undrafted rookie Alijah Clark has been signed to the active roster in his spot. Juanyeh Thomas will take over his starting responsibilities.

— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) October 4, 2025

Dallas Cowboys promoted undrafted rookie

In a corresponding move, the Dallas Cowboys promoted undrafted rookie Alijah Clark to the active roster in place of Malik Hooker.

Who will play in place of Malik Hooker?

Instead of Malik Hooker, Juanyeh Thomas, an undrafted safety who has been working his way into the rotation over the past few years, will start. Juanyeh Thomas was instrumental in the team’s comeback in Week 4, blocking an extra point that was returned for a touchdown by safety Markquese Bell.

Juanyeh Thomas has been solid in coverage and was in consideration for the slot cornerback position this offseason. Even so, Malik Hooker has been an underrated safety throughout his career, leaving big shoes for Juanyeh Thomas to fill.