Aikman Joins Cowboys' Practice

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman has returned to the practice field.

Aikman took snaps as the starting quarterback Wednesday for the first time since he was sidelined by a broken left collarbone in the second quarter of Denver's 42-23 victory over the Cowboys on Sept. 13.

Aikman said he experienced a little pain when throwing, but otherwise felt "pretty good."

"It's the first day. I'll get more practice time tomorrow and next week. I need all the practice I can get. I feel confident about going out and playing," he said.

Aikman's collarbone won't be completely healed until after the season.

"My biggest concern is getting hit," Aikman said. "I haven't been hit yet. There is a concern about whether the shoulder will hold up."

The Cowboys will fit Aikman with extra padding to support the bone. However, Aikman said it wouldn't help much in case of a direct hit, and he's more worried about having to use his left arm to break a fall.

Coach Chan Gailey said Aikman looked good in practice.

"He didn't look like he missed hardly anything," Gailey said. "He looked very good.

"Other than the obvious tangible things, it's good to have him back because of the intangibles. He's been a great leader for a long time."

Jason Garrett played in Aikman's stead and compiled a 3-2 record.

The Cowboys went into their bye week with a 4-3 record and a one-game lead in the NFC East. Their next game is Nov. 2, when they take on Philadelphia.

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