ARLINGTON, Texas – Seven weeks after breaking the fifth metatarsal in his right foot, Dez Bryant is once again active for the Dallas Cowboys.
It had been hinted at all week long, but Bryant has officially been declared active for Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks, marking his first game action since Week 1 this season.
The Cowboys' seven inactive players for the game are quarterback Kellen Moore, wide receiver Brice Butler, running back Joe Randle, cornerback Tyler Patmon, guard Ron Leary, tight end Geoff Swaim and defensive end Ryan Russell.
The initial prognosis for Bryant's recovery from foot surgery on Sept. 14 was a six-to-eight week timetable for return, putting him right within that range for Sunday's game. The All-Pro wide out remained on the active roster despite the injury in hopes that he could return quickly.
Bryant's return gives the Cowboys six receivers on their 53-man roster, which helps explain why Butler is inactive. The recently-acquired receiver was a full participant in Friday's practice despite a hamstring injury, but Bryant's availability made him a game day casualty.
Randle's absence is to be expected, as Cowboys coach Jason Garrett ruled him out on Thursday as he battles back from an oblique strain. The third-year running back missed all three days of practice, as he dealt with the injury as well as an unrelated personal issue.
With Randle sitting out, the Cowboys will turn to Christine Michael and Rod Smith – both of whom previously played for Seattle – for depth behind starter Darren McFadden.
There was some speculation that Patmon might re-enter the lineup while Corey White copes with a knee injury. But with White cleared to play, the second-year corner reverts to inactive status for the second-straight week.
Leary is also inactive for the second-straight week, as rookie La'el Collins will make his second-straight start and his third start overall this season.
The Seahawks' designated inactives are cornerback Tye Smith, running back Bryce Brown, safety Steven Terrell, offensive lineman Kristjan Sokoli, offensive tackle Russell Okung, tight end Cooper Helfet and defensive tackle David King.
Okung is the Seahawks' usual starter at left tackle, but he battled a toe injury that limited him during the week. His absence should give the Cowboys an advantage against an offensive line that has surrendered 31 sacks in seven games.
