IRVING, Texas --Big loss for the Cowboys' running game this Sunday: fullback Tony Fiammetta has been ruled out against the Redskins with an undisclosed illness.
Head coach Jason Garrett said the medical staff is monitoring Fiammetta and wouldn't speculate whether he could return in a week on Thanksgiving against Miami.
The Cowboys could opt to sign rookie fullback Shaun Chapas from the practice squad by 3 p.m. Saturday, which would require a cut from the 53-man roster.
Fiammetta has been out since Wednesday, when he practiced on a limited basis. He has made an impact as a lead blocker in recent weeks, with rookie DeMarco Murray gaining a Cowboys-record 601 yards in a four-game span.
Felix Jones, who appears to be ready to return froma four-game absence this week, gained a season-high 115 yards in Week 3 against Washington with Fiammetta blocking for him.
