Sean Lee and Tavon Austin are expected to practice this week. What about David Irving?

Dallas Cowboys coach Jason Garrett anticipates linebacker Sean Lee and receiver Tavon Austin take a huge step toward returning from injuries by at least practicing on a limited basis once the team resumes workouts on Wednesday.

The Cowboys, who got their fifth straight win against the Philadelphia Eagles, can clinch the NFC East title with a win against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday.

The road is not as clear for defensive tackle David Irving but Garrett said there is a possibility he could return to practice as well.

Lee has missed the last five games with a hamstring injury. Austin has missed the last seven games with a groin injury and Irving has missed the last six with a high ankle sprain.

The big question on Lee is how will the Cowboys use him upon his return, especially considering how well the defense has played during the five-game winning streak without him?

Rookie top pick Leighton Vander Esch has flourished in his place at weakside linebacker, leading the team in tackles.

But owner Jerry Jones and defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli have maintained that a healthy Lee will return to the starting lineup, though he will play in rotation with Vander Esch and middle linebacker Jaylon Smith and likely be on a snap count.

Austin’s place on the lineup is dicey as well with the Cowboys going largely to a three-man rotation at receiver with Amari Cooper, Michael Gallup and Cole Beasley _ though he could resume his role as the primary punt returner and gadget guy in the regular offense.

Irving could have the biggest impact whenever he returns because of his skills as an inside rusher. However, his status remains iffy because of lingering off the field issues that have kept him away from the facility at times while rehabbing from the high ankle sprain.

This story was originally published December 10, 2018 at 6:34 PM.