**Dallas Cowboys Open Practice Window for DaRon Bland Ahead of Lions Game**

The Dallas Cowboys have taken a significant step by opening the practice window for DaRon Bland as they gear up for their Sunday matchup against the Detroit Lions. Bland, a Pro Bowl cornerback, underwent surgery on August 26 to address a stress reaction in his left foot and has subsequently missed the first five games of the season while on injured reserve. Over the past weeks, Bland has intensified his rehabilitation efforts, making strides towards a potential return.

Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy remains measured in his optimism regarding Bland’s participation in the upcoming game. "Optimistic to see him practice every day," McCarthy stated. "We'll see what that brings. Obviously, we've got to take it one day at a time here." The Cowboys are scheduled for a light practice session on Wednesday following their early morning return from Pittsburgh, during which Bland will be on a "pitch count."

Bland, who led the NFL last season with nine interceptions and set a league record with five returns for touchdowns, reported soreness after the Cowboys’ final practice session in Oxnard, California in August. Since then, the Cowboys have been without their top three cornerbacks—Bland, Trevon Diggs, and Jourdan Lewis—since Week 2 of the previous season. Diggs suffered an ACL tear before their third game, and Lewis missed the opener while recovering from a severe foot injury.

Even if Bland is cleared to play against the Lions, his role may be restricted. To ensure they are covered, the Cowboys have recently promoted Amani Oruwariye from the practice squad, with Oruwariye starting the last game against the Steelers.

With injuries also sidelining key pass rushers Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, having a fully available secondary could provide a much-needed boost for the Cowboys. "He's been working, so it's not like just all of a sudden we're going to start working today," McCarthy noted. "He's been working with [director of rehab Britt Brown]. He's been doing football movements and skills, so it will be good to see him out there and get some work today. And we'll see where he is."

As the Cowboys navigate injuries and strategize for the upcoming game, the possibility of Bland’s return brings a glimmer of hope to fortify their defense.