Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott appears to be in prime position to return to action this weekend against the visiting Detroit Lions.

Coach Mike McCarthy said Prescott would be “in the lead chair as far as reps” on Thursday. Prescott, and his surgically repaired right thumb, were no worse for wear after he threw 40 passes during a reduced practice session on Wednesday.

Prescott received full clearance to return from his thumb injury this week. He is bidding to make his first start since sustaining the injury in Dallas’ 19-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sept. 11.

McCarthy on Thursday also noted that Prescott has two obstacles in his return from a lengthy absence.

“Rhythm and timing,” McCarthy said. “That’s the biggest thing, and it’s a challenge to grab that in this short a period of time. There’s no question, but really putting a ceiling on the workload is important, because Lord knows he’d throw a 140 (passes on Wednesday) if you let him.”

With Prescott sidelined, Cooper Rush led the Cowboys to four straight victories before throwing three interceptions in a 26-17 loss to the unbeaten Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday night.

In 2021, Prescott completed a career-high 68.8 percent of his passes and threw for 4,449 yards and a team-record 37 touchdowns.

–Field Level Media