Bennett’s Status For Opener In Doubt

IRVING, Texas — Tight end Martellus Bennett’s high right ankle sprain is likely to sideline him at least two weeks and possibly a month or more.

Considering the Cowboys will begin preparing in earnest for the New York Jets in about a week’s time, it seems doubtful Bennett will be ready by the Sept. 11 opener.

Bennett left was helped off the field in the third quarter of Saturday’s preseason win over the Vikings and flew home with the team wearing a large walking boot. X-rays were negative.

Without him, third-year veteran John Phillips and Martin Rucker will move up the depth chart. Rucker could make the team if the Cowboys decide to keep four tight ends.

Timetables for high ankle sprains are hard to pinpoint, however. The injury is more severe than a normal sprain because it affects the ligaments that connect to the fibula and tibia.