Aikman knocked out of action

SportsLine.com Report
Sept. 6, 2000

The Cowboys announced Wednesday that quarterback Troy Aikman will not play in Sunday's game against the Cardinals. Aikman is still having lingering effects from the concussion he suffered last Sunday against the Eagles.

The symptoms, including headache and nausea, have subsided greatly over the past few days.

Aikman came to the team's Valley Ranch headquarters Wednesday wanting to practice and ready to play on Sunday. He had undergone three days of testing by doctors inside and outside the Cowboys organization and while they didn't find any extensive damage from the concussion, they still recommended that Aikman sit out the Cardinals game.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones sided with the medical staff and overruled Aikman. Furthermore, Jones said there was no timetable for Aikman's return, meaning he could sit out against the Redskins the following week.

Also of note is the fact that if Aikman does suffer another concussion, it's been decided that he will be sidelined four-to-six weeks.

Aikman said he had no thoughts of retirement, saying the long-term risks of his concussion history are unknown and that his desire to play outweighs the perceived risks.

Randall Cunningham took all the snaps in practice Wednesday and is set to make his first start as a Cowboy. Cunningham also said his sprained right thumb is fine and that it will not limit him in the game Sunday.

MORE INJURIES TO WATCH: Cornerback Dwayne Goodrich returned to practice for the first time since suffering a hamstring injury Aug. 5. Cornerback Charlie Williams, who has been out since the beginning of training camp recovering from knee surgery and a staph infection practiced on a limited basis yesterday.