IRVING, Texas – Wednesday practice is underway, and Dez Bryant is not a part of it.
That isn't exactly a surprising development, but it is noteworthy as the Cowboys begin their preparations for the New York Giants. Bryant's broken foot has been the source of intense speculation this week as he nears his timetable for return.
Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said Wednesday morning he didn't expect much from his star wide out to start the week.
"We don't anticipate much from him in the formal team setting," Garrett said. "He's working on the side, and if he can work in, he'll work in, and we'll see how he does with that work and give him more if we can."
Bryant wasn't even doing conditioning work at the start Wednesday's practice, but it's worth pointing out that only the first 25 minutes of practice are open to media. It's likely that he'll continue his regimen of conditioning as the week progresses.
"I don't want to get into specifics of what his rehab is, but he's making progress," Garrett said.
On the flip side of the spectrum, Bryant was the only player on the Cowboys' roster who didn't participate in practice. Other injury concerns like Brice Butler and Randy Gregory were on hand and working through the early portion of practice.
The Cowboys' two new practice squad signees, linebacker Darius Eubanks and defensive tackle Casey Walker, were also on hand.
Bryant's absence is understandably the story of the week, but it was a rare occasion for Dallas to have 62 of its 63 available players on hand upon return from the bye week. Bryant's participation Thursday will be a telling indicator of his prospects for the weekend.
