FRISCO, Texas — Tony Romo participated in throwing drills at practice Wednesday for the first time since the Dallas quarterback broke a bone in his back in a preseason game at Seattle in August.
The 36-year-old Romo worked in several individual drills in shorts and a T-shirt with his teammates in full pads. While he almost certainly won’t play against Philadelphia on Sunday, it’s the biggest step in his latest return from injury.
The Cowboys (5-1) have won five straight with Dak Prescott, who is set to face fellow rookie starter Carson Wentz of the Eagles.
Romo was the third quarterback for each drill behind Prescott and veteran backup Mark Sanchez. Romo appeared to be throwing at full velocity, and also dropped back and threw a few passes on the run. He was listed as a non-participant on the practice report.
Before practice, coach Jason Garrett’s answer was the same it has been for weeks now: Romo is progressing well in his rehab. Garrett made no mention of Romo joining individual drills. Romo wasn’t in the locker room when it was open to reporters.
"We’ll just take it day by day," Garrett said, repeating another familiar refrain. "He’s had some good days of rehab though lately."
Prescott said Romo’s work wasn’t much different than other practice days, although joining the early throwing sessions was new.
"He’s looked sharp every time he’s out there," Prescott said. "That’s a vet that takes care of himself, going to get back healthy. He’s doing all the right things to do that."
Garrett has steadfastly declined to address what will happen when Romo is ready to return. The surprising Prescott, a fourth-round pick, is fifth in the NFL in passer rating at 103.9.
The Cowboys, who went 1-11 last year when Romo was out with a twice-broken left collarbone, are tied with Minnesota for the best record in the NFC.
