Dallas wide receiver Dez Bryant participated on a limited basis in practice on Thursday while continuing to vow to play Sunday night in New Orleans. But sources close to the Cowboys standout tell FOX Sports Southwest that there are concerns he is suffering from a bulging or herniated disc in his back and that measures being taken to treat the ailment go far beyond "precautionary."
"C'mon, you know I'm going to play,'' Bryant said in the locker room while declining to address the specifics of his condition.
But this is not just "tightness" or "back spasms."
There are concerns that this is indeed "a significant deal."
The terms "herniated" and "bulging" are often used interchangeably. They are different, but the problems and treatments are similar: Traction, electrical stim, heat and rest.
This is not a reason to panic, though there is cause for concern. Bryant is confident he'll play, but since the Cowboys play on Sunday night, this could turn into a dicey situation if Bryant's status isn't cleared up by Sunday morning. In the long haul, Bryant owners should try to trade for Terrance Williams to give themselves some insurance in case Bryant were to miss time.
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