Cowboys LB Bruce Carter dislocated his elbow vs. the Redskins on Thursday and may be out for the season. (US Presswire)

The Cowboys are hoping for good news, but there's a chance that linebacker Bruce Carter could be the latest defensive player to land on injured reserve.

Carter suffered a dislocated elbow injury in the second half Thursday against the Redskins. He is expected to see a hand/arm specialist on Monday in Dallas.

If that visit determines Carter needs surgery, his season will be over and the linebacker will go on IR. Even without surgery, Carter will likely miss the next two games, but that would be best-case scenario.

The Cowboys have already placed linebacker Sean Lee (toe surgery), safety Barry Church (torn Achilles) and defensive end Kenyon Coleman (torn triceps) on IR this year. Cornerback Orlando Scandrick suffered a broken left hand and could miss considerable time, possibly even the rest of the season.

As for the middle linebacker spot, Carter’s injury will force the Cowboys to play with Dan Connor and Ernie Sims at the two inside spots. Alex Albright should get more snaps, and it’s possible the Cowboys will have to sign an inside backer for depth purposes.

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