WR Stanback back at practice for Cowboys

Posted: September 1, 2008

IRVING, Texas (AP) -- Dallas Cowboys receiver Isaiah Stanback practiced Monday, providing a potential boost for the team heading into its season opener.

Stanback separated his left shoulder returning a kickoff Aug. 22 and didn't practice last week, when he still couldn't lift his arms above shoulder level.


He was one of three receivers injured in the team's last three preseason games, leaving Dallas with only two healthy receivers, Terrell Owens and Patrick Crayton, after their final roster cuts over the weekend.

Coach Wade Phillips said Stanback looked good at practice and could play Sunday at Cleveland.

"Caught the ball over his head. Made a couple of real good catches. Caught a curl route. Caught the ball and ran with it. Caught a couple of deep balls. One of his way over his head one time," Phillips said. "It looks good that he'll play and he'll be able to play as a third receiver for us, as long as no hitches come the rest of the week."

Receivers Sam Hurd (left ankle) and Miles Austin (sprained right knee) definitely won't play in the season opener, and might go longer without getting in a game.