McCarthy: Cowboys' Dak Prescott Expected to Be Cleared from Thumb Injury by Tuesday

The head coach of the Dallas Cowboys said that the quarterback will be back in practice on Wednesday.

He told reporters that the anticipation was for the decision to be made today or tomorrow. He will come back to practice on Wednesday.

McCarthy said that the status of Prescott for Sunday is not clear.

Michael Gehlken @GehlkenNFL

Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy later used word “if” about Dak Prescott playing Sunday, adding some conditionality based on how he looks this week. “We’ve got to get the timing” down. That is where he’ll be evaluated before deciding if he starts vs. Lions. Will throw Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/xX1aW7Z0tM

He injured his thumb in the first game of the season. In his place, Cooper Rush led the Cowboys to four straight wins and kept their playoff hopes alive.

The idea that Dallas was better off with Rush under center was put to rest in Week 6. He was 18-of-38 for 181 yards, one touchdown and three turnovers as his team was defeated by Philadelphia.

The Cowboys are fortunate they made it this long before Rush collapsed, and they're also lucky that their recovery is going to take less time than expected.

The Lions are a good opponent for the two-time Bowler when he returns. Detroit is ranked 28th in passer rating and 26th in passing yards allowed.

The Chicago Bears defense is holding opposing teams to 178.7 yards per game through the air, so it's going to be a harder challenge for the Cowboys to overcome.