Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Injured Terry Glenn tests leg on practice field

BY MAC ENGEL
STAR-TELEGRAM STAFF WRITER

IRVING -- Receiver Terry Glenn might have made his first real step toward returning Wednesday.

While his teammates practiced at the Cowboys indoor facility, he walked out to one of the outdoor fields with a team trainer. He's been running for a few days, and the Cowboys hope these are the first steps to building his leg strength back so he can return.

In his place, Patrick Crayton has started. But his status is uncertain for Thursday's game after he suffered a sprained left ankle during a punt return in the first quarter against the Washington Redskins on Sunday. He said he will be a game-time decision.

"I will have a field test and see how it feels. I haven't run on it yet," Crayton said. "The quick turnaround is what is getting in the way of getting this thing healed the way I need. If we're not ready to go tomorrow, we'll get it ready for Green Bay."

Glenn said he's not pushing himself so he can play in Thursday's game against the New York Jets (3:15 p.m.).

"It ain't because Patrick [Crayton] is hurt," Glenn said.

Glenn hasn't played a snap this season because of two surgeries on his right knee. The first one was Aug. 1. The second was about six weeks later.

Sam Hurd, who in two seasons has 13 catches for 216 yards with one touchdown, would start in his place. Second-year receiver Miles Austin, who has no career catches, would be the third receiver.

"I already know all the stories about guys having great days on Thanksgiving," Hurd said. "It gives me chills. It's going to happen again. I'm just thinking positive."