For the first time since breaking his right foot against the New York Giants in the season opener, Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant was spotted at practice on Thursday. 

Dallas had originally given a four-to-six week recovery time for Bryant's injury. Considering he's missed the past four games, this might put Bryant on track to return against the aforementioned Giants after the Cowboys Week 6 bye. 

Though, there is no indication that Bryant was a full go in practice on Thursday. He was seen going through some motion workouts with the team's athletic trainer, but that's pretty much the extent of it. The likely designation here is that Bryant was a limited participant in practice. 

With well over a week remaining until their next game, the Cowboys may be slowly working Bryant into the practice mix. If so, that bodes well for his availability in Week 7. 

Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett indicated on Monday that the star receiver would have to return to practice in order to play — something that took place on Thursday. Garrett also sounded optimistic regarding how Bryant's recovery is going: 

"He has made a lot of progress," Garrett said Wednesday. "He is moving around. I think he feels good."

This type of injury can impact a receiver's ability to make plays long after returning to action. Atlanta Falcons pass catcher Julio Jones, who suffered a similar injury back in 2011, cautioned Bryant against returning too soon. 

At 2-3 on the season, Dallas desparately needs to get its top receiving threat back in the mix. With Tony Romo unable to return until Week 11 at the earliest, these next few games are absolutely huge for the team's playoff hopes. When Bryant does return, he will be catching passes from Matt Cassel until Romo returns.