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A little good news on the horizon?

Bryant Sheds Boot, Recovery Going Well

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The temperature may have been lower as the Cowboys practiced for the first time in Oxnard, Calif., but the mood was higher as wide receiver Dez Bryant did some light rehab work without his protective walking boot 15 days after spraining his ankle.

Trainers and staff said they would reevaluate Bryant's high ankle sprain about two weeks after the injury. The healing process seems to be on time or possibly a bit further ahead of the four-to-six week timetable, as Bryant walked around and stretched without a boot.

If Bryant heals rapidly, he may be ready for one or two preseason games before the regular season begins at Washington on Sept. 12. But the Cowboys' medical and training staff will not rush his return.

"If he does come back and he's able to play in a couple preseason games, then he can get a feel for what it may be like just being on the field," wide receivers coach Ray Sherman said.

Sherman said Bryant is feeling better every day, but he doesn't have a timetable for an exact return date. He said ankle sprains tend to be different for each player.

"We want him to come back when he's ready to go and healthy, because you don't want a guy coming back and then something happens and he's back out again," Sherman said. "Hopefully when he comes back, he's going to be here for a while."

Sherman said the mental notes Bryant can take in practice should have him prepared to get back into action without falling too far behind. He said Bryant is staying on top of everything in meetings, film studies and during practice. When Sherman shouts out a route, Bryant responds with where he's supposed to be.

"This is what he loves to do, and I just can't wait until I get him back out here," Sherman said.