IRVING, Texas -- The playing status of Dallas Cowboys starting offensive linemen Marc Colombo and Kyle Kosier is in question for the regular-season opener at the Washington Redskins as they recover from knee injuries.
Colombo suffered a right knee injury on Aug. 15 during training camp in Oxnard, Calif., and needed surgery to clean out loose cartilage. He was expected to miss 10 to 14 days but still hasn't returned to practice.
Last week, on the eve of the preseason finale vs. the Miami Dolphins, Colombo said it was up to the trainers to decide when he'll return.
"If he practices Wednesday, I'll be more optimistic," coach Wade Phillips said about Colombo.
Kosier suffered a sprained MCL in is right knee on Aug. 18 and was expected to miss four to six weeks.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Kosier was feeling better than expected and was hopeful he would return for the season opener.
Based on the original timetable, however, Kosier could be ready by the second regular-season game, Sept. 19 vs. the Chicago Bears.
If both players are unavailable, Montrae Holland would replace Kosier at left guard and Alex Barron would take over for Colombo at right tackle.
Calvin Watkins covers the Cowboys for ESPNDallas.com. You can follow him on Twitter or leave a question for his weekly mailbag.