Cowboys Wednesday Practice & Injury Report (Playoffs): No Sign Of Anthony Hitchens Or Doug Free

The Dallas Cowboys convened on Wednesday to begin preparations for their wild-card round playoff game with the Detroit Lions. One player they were without and who will be out for the rest of the season is defensive tackle Henry Melton. Yesterday he was placed on IR for a hairline fracture in his knee. He was replaced on the roster by linebacker James Anderson. One reason they picked up a linebacker is because of Anthony Hitchens. He was not at practice today with his high ankle sprain, leaving the Cowboys thin at that position. Also, Rolando McClain was at practice, but was only watching the drills at the beginning of practice. He might still be recovering from his flu-like illness or they may be resting his chronically sore knee.

Also missing from practice was right tackle Doug Free, still recovering from his foot and ankle issues. He was joined in the "missing" category by defensive tackle Nick Hayden (shoulder) and safety C.J. Spillman (groin). Of course, keeping to his regular routine, Tony Romo was not at practice leaving the reps to Brandon Weeden.

Defensive tackle Josh Brent's calf is going to leave him as a game-time decision this week.

As for his status, Brent said it remains tenuous. "Like I have been saying the entire time it’s been  a game-time decision," Brent said. "It will be the same this week. Whatever the medical staff feels is best, obviously that’s going to be the final decision."

The Cowboys linebacker position got back Dekoda Watson today, a guy who has missed the last five weeks with a hamstring issue. And newcomer linebacker James Anderson was out there practicing. The Cowboys are hoping Anthony Hitchens might be able to play, but their depth will be tested if he doesn't. Cam Lawrence filled in for the Washington game; he, Watson and Anderson better be ready in case they are needed Sunday.

A little background on James Anderson can be found here.