IRVING, Texas (Oct. 12, 2005) -- Running back Julius Jones and linebacker Dat Nguyen did not go through team drills Oct. 12 and the Dallas Cowboys aren't sure whether either will play against the New York Giants.
Both are listed as questionable.
Coach Bill Parcells said he is "kind of hoping" Jones will be able to play despite a sprained left ankle that kept him out of the second half of a victory over Philadelphia. Jones had 72 yards in two quarters and was clearly frustrated to be on the sideline.
Rookie Tyson Thompson, who gained 75 yards in Jones' place, or veteran Anthony Thomas likely would start if Jones can't play.
Thomas has been inactive for several games and isn't happy about it. Parcells said he spoke to Thomas this week to clarify his role.
"It wasn't exactly a two-way discussion," Parcells said. "I told him exactly what I thought, where he was in this world, and I'm hopeful he's receptive to it."
The Cowboys also have rookie Marion Barber III and they added Keylon Kincade to the practice squad.
Parcells said Jones spent Oct. 12 rehabilitating the ankle. Parcells made it clear that Jones won't play without practicing either of the following two days.
"I'm not telling you who (the starter) is or who it's going to be because I haven't decided," Parcells said. "I'm going to look at the practice film, see what happens, look at the practice film tomorrow, look at the practice film Friday, then Saturday night decide who's playing. That's what we're going to do. To do something in advance of that would not be too smart."
Nguyen missed the Eagles game with a neck injury. Scott Shanle did well in his place and likely would get the start again.
