Dallas Cowboys right tackle Doug Free has been ruled out of action for between three to four weeks after sustaining a fractured foot.
Free has insisted that he wants to play against the New York Giants on Sunday, but it is unlikely that he will receive clearance from the medical staff, NFL.com reports.
The Cowboys have started with a 5-1 record for the season, with their offensive line and revamped defense emphasised as key parts of their success.
Jermey Parnell will be expected to carry additional responsibility in Free's absence, with the injured star's run of 77 consecutive games coming to an end.
