Romo returns to practice as limited participant

Tony Romo took another step in his recovery from a preseason back injury Thursday, officially returning to practice in a limited capacity for the first time this season.

The Dallas Cowboys quarterback had been on the field alongside his teammates the day prior, but taking part in a few throwing drills wasn't enough to have him listed as more than a non-participant.

There's likely some significant work to be done before he's cleared to play, not the least of which being the all-important factors of getting himself into football shape and in rhythm with the offense. Either way, though, the decision the football world has been waiting for is fast approaching.

Romo continuing to take steps over the next few weeks will force the Cowboys to say once and for all whether they intend to have him step in as the starter and push Dak Prescott back to the bench.

Prescott's instant success has made a once-simple decision incredibly complicated, and it's possible he'll only continue on that path as Romo works his way back to full strength.

The fourth-round rookie will get a seventh start Sunday night when the Cowboys host the division-rival Philadelphia Eagles, this time having the benefit of star receiver Dez Bryant returning to the lineup.

Three consecutive AFC North contests are on tap thereafter, as Dallas will head out on the road to visit the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers before returning home to take on the Baltimore Ravens.