ARLINGTON, Texas – Although he experienced some back tightness in Friday's practice, All-Pro left tackle Tyron Smith is likely to play Sunday against the Bears, Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones said.
"We did put him on the injury report because he didn't get through practice," Jones said. "But the expectation is that he'll be ready to go."
Jones said cornerback Orlando Scandrick is a game-time decision against the Bears, having missed practice this week with soreness in both his hamstrings. Although he was restricted to nickel package work, Scandrick played close to 50 defensive plays in last Sunday's win over the Redskins.
"We want to be careful," Jones said. "At the same time, he's a competitor and he wants to be out there. We'll make that decision at game time."
As expected, quarterback Tony Romo has been ruled out of Sunday's game as he continues to recover from a broken bone in his back suffered Aug. 25 in a preseason game at Seattle. There's still not a specific timetable for Romo's expected return this season, but Jones said "right now everything's looking great and he's feeling good and certainly feels good about the progress he's making."
In the meantime, Dak Prescott will continue to start in Romo's place. The rookie directed the offense's winning touchdown drive against the Redskins and will make his first career start in primetime Sunday night against the Bears at AT&T Stadium.
--Rob Phillips
