“There Is No Timetable Right Now” For Witten's Return

Jason Witten said this week that there is currently no set timetable for his return from a lacerated spleen, suffered in the Cowboys’ preseason opener in Oakland last Monday. Obviously, the five-time All-Pro is hoping to be back in time for the regular season opener against the reigning Super Bowl Champion New York Giants on September 5, but he knows that the decision is out of his hands.

“It’s not something you can fight through and dig deep,” Witten said, per the Dallas Morning News. “That’s the challenge in a situation like this. Rest is the only answer.

“I’d be hard-pressed to imagine not being out there against the Giants. But there is no timetable right now.’’

The Cowboys’ team doctors will continue to monitor Witten on a day-to-day basis, and for now, they are planning on allowing the spleen to heal on its own; however, the team made clear this week that surgery remains an option, if simple rest doesn’t do the trick.

“It could have been a lot worse,’’ Witten said. “I am fortunate and thankful it is as minimal damage as it can be right now.

“That’s the biggest part right now, just resting, trying to let that heal up.’’