Cowboys’ DeMarvion Overshown Suffers Serious Knee Injury vs. Bengals; Micah Parsons Emotional Over Teammate’s Loss
The Dallas Cowboys’ preseason clash against the Cincinnati Bengals took a heartbreaking turn when rookie linebacker DeMarvion Overshown suffered a serious knee injury. Overshown, a third-round pick out of Texas, had been impressing coaches and fans alike with his speed, instincts, and energy throughout training camp and preseason games. His promising NFL journey, however, has been abruptly halted, leaving teammates visibly shaken and the team reeling.
Micah Parsons, the Cowboys’ All-Pro linebacker and emotional leader, was particularly devastated. Speaking to reporters after the game, Parsons struggled to hold back tears as he talked about the impact Overshown had already made on the team.
Overshown’s injury occurred during the first quarter of the game against the Bengals. As he made an aggressive move toward the ball carrier, his knee buckled awkwardly, and he immediately went down, clutching his leg in pain. Medical personnel rushed onto the field, and after several minutes of evaluation, Overshown was carted off.
The sight of the rookie being helped off the field left an indelible mark on his teammates. Head coach Mike McCarthy later confirmed that the initial diagnosis was a serious knee injury, pending further tests. Early reports suggest the possibility of a torn ACL, which would sideline Overshown for the entirety of his rookie season.
“It’s tough to see anyone go down, but especially someone like DeMarvion,” McCarthy said after the game. “He’s worked so hard to get here, and he’s been making such a great impression on everyone—players and coaches alike. It’s heartbreaking.
Micah Parsons, known for his ferocity on the field and his leadership off it, was visibly emotional when discussing Overshown’s injury. “It’s hard, man. It really is,” Parsons said, his voice breaking. “He’s like a little brother to me. I’ve been watching him grow, seeing his passion, his hunger to be great. For something like this to happen, it just hurts so much.”
Parsons, who has emerged as a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense, had taken Overshown under his wing since the rookie’s arrival. The two shared a close bond, with Parsons often praising Overshown’s potential and work ethic. “This game can be so cruel sometimes,” Parsons added. “But I know he’s a fighter. He’s going to come back stronger, and we’re all going to be there for him every step of the way.”
Overshown entered the NFL with high expectations following a standout college career at Texas. Known for his versatility and athleticism, he quickly caught the attention of the Cowboys’ coaching staff during OTAs and training camp. His ability to play multiple linebacker positions and contribute on special teams had put him in line for significant playing time as a rookie.
In the Cowboys’ first preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Overshown made an immediate impact with six tackles, including several explosive plays that showcased his sideline-to-sideline speed. His performance drew praise from McCarthy and defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, who saw him as a key piece in the team’s defensive rotation.
As the Cowboys move forward, the loss of Overshown casts a shadow over their preseason and raises questions about depth at linebacker. Players like Jabril Cox and Damone Clark will now be expected to step up and fill the void left by Overshown’s absence.
Still, the team remains resolute in their support for their injured teammate. “This is when we come together as a family,” Parsons said. “It’s not just about football. We’re here for each other in the highs and the lows.”
For Overshown, the road to recovery will be long and challenging. A potential ACL tear typically requires surgery and months of rehabilitation, but if there’s one thing the Cowboys believe about their rookie, it’s his resilience.
Parsons summed up the team’s belief in Overshown’s ability to bounce back: “He’s got the heart of a lion. I know he’ll be back, and when he is, he’s going to make everyone remember why he belongs here.”
While the Cowboys will now look to regroup and refocus on their season, Overshown’s injury serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of a football career. For a young player who was just beginning to make his mark, the setback is profound—but his potential and the support of his teammates will undoubtedly fuel his return.