FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys are not going to rush Dak Prescott back from a fractured right thumb, suffered in the season opening loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
But they are certainly clearing the road for him to return as soon as possible.
What was initially considered an eight-week return was reduced to four weeks after Prescott underwent surgery on Sept. 12 when a metal plate and screws were inserted “repair and stabilize” a fracture near his right thumb.
Vice President Stephen Jones said the surgery went so well that there is a chance Prescott could return in two weeks, possibly as soon the Oct. 2 match up against the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium following tthe Sept. 26 game at the New York Giants.
Jones initially broached the subject before the Cowboys 20-17 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals Sunday night.
“He’s got a chance to come back maybe third or fourth game. That’s why we didn’t put him on (injured reserve),” Jones said on 105.3 The Fan.
He doubled down Monday morning during his radio show on the same network.
“I think the very best [return date] would be Washington [Week 4] or the Rams [Week 5],” Jones said. “So far everything has gone his way, from the surgery to the swelling after the surgery was very minimal compared to what it can be.”
Jones said it’s all an educated guess and they won’t know until “we get closer.”
“We have optimism of Dak coming back sooner than later,” Jones said.
Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy acknowledged that things are progressing well with Prescott. And said he will get the stitches out of his thumb this week.
But he refused to commit to a timeline for his return.
“Let’s get the stitches out first,” McCarthy said.
