Friday, August 18, 2006

Returning to practice for Dallas, it's...

By Os Davis on August 18, 2006 04:00 AM

As has so often been the case in this preseason, grabbing headlines over all else in Dallas Cowboys land yesterday were reports of one player's appearance at practice sessions: We are, of course, talking here about Bobby Carpenter.

Those attentive to the needs of Cowboy players not known by monogrammed initials may have noticed that the linebacker drafted in the first round has missed a handful of practices recently for undisclosed reasons. Carpenter did participate yesterday, certainly explaining the media horde covering the session.

After all, the former Ohio State Buckeye OLB was praised as an astute selection by Dallas brass. One of the best-kept secrets in the draft, Carpenter still managed to play every regular-season game in his college career and gain the starting spot in his senior year to team with A.J. Hawk at linebacker. Carpenter, who may also see time at defensive end, will certainly grab his share of highlight clips.

Exciting as Carpenter may turn out, though, imaginations of Cowboy fans couldn't help but be captured by that often colorful, once-troubled wide receiver with game breaking ability. You know who they came out to see: Terry Glenn.

Glenn came back to practice yesterday after reportedly being sat by head coach Bill Parcells for blisters on his feet. (Those had to be some serious blisters...) This other former Ohio State Buckeye saw minimal time in last weekend's Tony Romo show in Seattle, catching one pass for 20 yards; he remains listed as "probable" for Monday night's game against New Orleans.

Big-name free agent acquisition or no, Glenn is also key to the success of the 2006 Dallas Cowboys . Last season, Glenn was a steady performer, rounding up a career year while achieving personal bests TD catches and yards per reception (a fat 18.3); he missed setting a personal record in total yards by exactly 11. Can you imagine, this guy figures to be the No. 2 receiver this year? Glenn's return must be the reason for the salivating media.

So, Bobby Carpenter and Terry Glenn have returned to practice. Whatever news will come out of Cowboy land now?