Cowboys' Malik Hooker channels Michael Jordan, leaves no doubt about Week 1 status

The Dallas Cowboys experienced some unfortunate injury luck while preparing for Week 1 against the New York Giants. With Tyler Smith, Tyron Smith and Donovan Wilson all questionable for Sunday night, Malik Hooker popped up on the injury report Saturday with an apparent illness.

Hooker was given a questionable tag, which incited panic among Cowboys fans. Though road favorites in East Rutherford, any team would struggle to overcome missing two of its three starting safeties against a rival.

It's a different story with the Cowboys, as safety has morphed into one of the most important positions since Dan Quinn took over as defensive coordinator.

While Wilson's status is in question, Hooker won't allow an illness to keep him out of the season opener. The veteran safety took to social media to show he's channeling Michael Jordan's iconic "Flu Game" for Sunday night.

Cowboys' Malik Hooker to play through illness in Week 1

That post could be open for interpretation, so Hooker took things a step further and assured Cowboys fans he'll be on the field.

Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News responded to Hooker's Jordan meme saying, "Have a feeling we'll see Cowboys S Malik Hooker on Sunday night." To which Hooker replied:

Anyone else feel the urge to run through a brick wall?

How about now?

The Jordan GIF has become the chief source of motivation for athletes who are battling an illness before a game. Hooker posting this mere hours after he was a surprise addition to the injury report is the confidence boost the Cowboys (and fans) needed before kickoff.

Who could forget Jordan's Flu Game? In Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, the illness-stricken basketball legend willed the Bulls to a win by scoring 38 points in 44 minutes, including the most important bucket: the go-ahead three in the final seconds.

It's arguably the most iconic moment in Jordan's legendary career.

Hooker obviously will be hard-pressed to match MJ's performance Sunday night, but the fact the safety will be out there alongside Jayron Kearse means the Cowboys defense should be in good hands even if Wilson can't go.

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