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The Dallas Cowboys returned to the practice field on Wednesday, they are preparing for their upcoming game on Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals. Missing from practice, among others, was quarterback Tony Romo. In one respect, this isn't really news. Romo always sits out Wednesday practices. But after the injury to his back in the Washington game, his absence takes on more significance. As was noted earlier today, there are mixed signals coming out of Valley Ranch about his readiness. Jerry Jones made the comment this morning that everything is structurally sound and that Romo could play if he can handle the pain. Jason Garrett had this to say at his press conference:
Tony Romo has been labeled "day-by-day" with his back contusion, according to Cowboys coach Jason Garrett. Garrett spoke to the media Wednesday after the team received Romo’s CT scans on the injury he suffered Monday night against the Redskins. The injury will be enough to keep the quarterback out of practice Wednesday, but his availability the rest of the week remains to be seen. "It’s a day-by-day thing with Tony, we’ll see how he handles the pain and we’ll see how functional he is as the week goes on," Garrett said. "We’ll see what his availability is for this ball game."
Not much to go on there. Tomorrow will be a crucial day because if he doesn't practice on Thursday, then that is out of his normal routine.
Rolando McClain missed practice today as he is still dealing with a groin strain. Justin Durant was officially placed on injured reserve today, ending his season. According to the Dallas Morning News, with both McClain and Durant out the linebackers lined up with Bruce Carter moving back to the weak side, Anthony Hitchens played in the middle and Kyle Wilber played the strong side. If McClain comes back and plays, this might be an indication that Carter will move back to the weak side for the foreseeable future.
Doug Free was out again and apparently has been ruled out for this week. Now the Cowboys are dealing with an issue at left guard as Ronald Leary missed practice because of a groin strain, Mackenzy Bernadeau practiced in his place.
On the positive side, defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence was practicing and should finally get on the field against Arizona. Josh Brent has started doing some work on the side at practices.
The Cowboys will add veteran linebacker Tim Dobbins to the roster to replace Justin Durant.