EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz returned to practice Monday after missing two weeks with a bruised heel, a good sign for the star wideout's chances of playing in the season opener Sunday night against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas.
Cruz, who bruised his left heel in the Giants' preseason game against the Colts on Aug. 18, took part in all drills during the portion of Monday morning's practice that was open to the media. Coach Tom Coughlin said Cruz took at least half of the practice reps, which was the team's plan.
"It feels really good to be back out there. My major concern was coming out of those hard-breaking routes, those curls, where I'm really digging my foot in. But I did it, and it didn't feel bad," Cruz said.
Cruz said he was going "full speed" and "wasn't holding anything back."
"I'm actually more encouraged about Week 1 now," he said.
Quarterback Eli Manning said it was good to have Cruz back on the practice field.
"It's good to have all your weapons out there at wide receiver," he said. "So it's good to see him moving around out there and it's exciting as we're getting ready for this opening game."
Cruz even got some action as a return man with a group that included David Wilson, Rueben Randle, Jerrel Jernigan and Aaron Ross. He did not appear limited in any way.
Cruz was in a walking boot the day after the injury and until Monday he had not practiced since.
He said at the time he believed he'd be ready for the opener. Assuming he continues to practice without limitations, it appears as though he will.
"As long as everything keeps going well, and I keep icing it and I wake up in the morning feeling good and the swelling keeps going down, I should be good to go," he said Monday.