The Dallas Cowboys defense was ravaged by injuries throughout the first six weeks of the season, so there was hope the bye week would allow some players to come out healthy.

One of the players Cowboys Nation has been waiting for news on is star edge rusher Micah Parsons, who was injured in a win over the New York Giants.

Parsons has been fighting to get back onto the field and there was some hope he could return immediately after the team’s bye week. While we aren’t sure if that will be the case, there is some optimism.

MORE: Dallas Cowboys Week 8 matchup could be a loser leaves town scenario

Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy was asked about Parsons’ progress, and while his answer was brief, it showed some hope that Parsons could return against the San Francisco 49ers.

“He’s doing good. Micah is making progress,” McCarthy said.

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons before the game against the San Francisco 49ers. / Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Not only does Parsons bring some much-needed talent and production to the defense, he brings leadership that the Cowboys desperately lack.

So, getting Parsons back on the field should make everyone on the field better.

We will have to continue monitoring Parsons’ status throughout the week of practice and hope that he will be available when the Cowboys take the field in primetime against the 49ers on Sunday Night Football at Levi’s Stadium.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on Fanentrance —