Malik Hooker Injury Update
Dallas Cowboys Safety Malik Hooker Suffers Fractured Forearm Against Giants
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Key Points
1
Hooker is 30 years old and entered the NFL as a first-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts in 2017.
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The Cowboys signed Hooker to a three-year extension in 2023 worth up to $24 million, including an $8 million signing bonus and $16.5 million in fully guaranteed money.
3
Hooker started 12 games for Dallas in 2025 and finished the season with 52 total tackles and one pass deflection.
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The typical recovery period cited for broken bones is six to eight weeks, though the specific location and severity of Hooker’s fracture could allow him to return sooner.
Dallas Cowboys safety Malik Hooker fractured his forearm during Sunday's 28-20 loss to the New York Giants and left the game in the fourth quarter, according to CBS Sports. The 30-year-old is consulting a hand specialist to determine his exact recovery timeline, though AOL reports he could miss several weeks. Doctors hope the specific fracture location allows him to return sooner than the typical six to eight week recovery period.
Hooker started 12 games for Dallas this season and recorded 52 total tackles and one pass deflection. The Cowboys signed him to a three-year extension in 2023 worth up to $24 million, including $16.5 million guaranteed. P.J. Locke and Markquese Bell are expected to compete for additional snaps alongside safety Jalen Thompson during his absence.
First-Round Pedigree and Dallas Contract Details
Hooker entered the NFL as the Indianapolis Colts' first-round pick in 2017. The Cowboys brought him in and rewarded his consistent play with a three-year extension in 2023 valued at up to $24 million. The deal included an $8 million signing bonus and $16.5 million in guaranteed money, making him a key investment for Dallas's secondary.
Typical Recovery Could Stretch Six to Eight Weeks
Broken forearm bones typically require six to eight weeks to heal, according to standard medical guidelines. However, the severity and exact location of Hooker's fracture could allow for a faster return to play. A hand specialist is currently evaluating his injury to provide a more precise timeline for his recovery.
Secondary Must Adapt Without Starting Safety
Hooker left Sunday's game in the fourth quarter after recording just one solo tackle before the injury. The Cowboys will lean on Jalen Thompson at safety while Locke and Bell compete for snaps. Dallas must shore up its secondary depth as it continues its season without one of its defensive leaders.
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