What happened: Joey Porter Jr. worked on resistance cords alongside Dallas Cowboys director of rehabilitation Britt Brown at the start of Thursday's practice. The cornerback was listed as a non-participant in Wednesday's session due to an ankle injury after team staff anticipated some on-field work.

Why it matters: The Cowboys sit at 4-5 following a 27-23 victory over the Indianapolis Colts as they navigate the second half of the regular season. Porter's progression from missing practice to sideline conditioning marks a positive step toward stabilizing the Dallas secondary.

What to watch: Dallas will issue its updated practice participation report later Thursday to clarify whether Porter is officially upgraded from non-participant status.