Jason Witten Makes Trip to New York, Expected To Be Game-Time Decision

Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten wants to play on Wednesday night against the New York Giants in the worst way.

The 30-year-old is a game-time decision. ESPN's Chris Mortensen tweeted:

"

Jason Witten has persistently offered to sign medical waiver. #Cowboys won't accept it. Made trip, doubtful, "game-time decision." #NFL32

— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) September 5, 2012"

Witten is one of those players that requires the intervention of coaches and medical staff when it comes to playing through injury. He has a wealth of toughness and passion for the game, but he must be protected from competing if it could be to his long-term detriment.

The Cowboys would be smart to resist the urge to play him. Although Witten is a gifted performer and a vital piece in the Cowboys passing game, it's almost certain he won't be 100 percent.

That said, it's easy to see why they would be tempted to let him go.

As Mortensen mentioned, he wants to play. What's more, this is the season opener against a division rival that just so happens to be the defending Super Bowl champion. This is about as big as a Week 1 game can be.

Still, it's just one game. Risking Witten's long-term health and future availability to the team isn't worth it.

The Cowboys will need third-year pro John Phillips to step up if Witten isn't given the green light.

We'll have to see what the game-time decision is, but Cowboys fans better keep their fingers crossed if they see No. 82 jog onto the field at MetLife Stadium.

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