The Facts: Cowboys TE Jason Witten, who suffered a lacerated spleen in a preseason game against the Raiders on August 13, has recovered sufficiently that he will play as the NFL opens its regular season tonight against the Giants. NBC’s Michelle Tafoya reports that Witten is playing. Also, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, coming off a broken foot, is active and starting tonight.

Diehards Line:Witten said the doctors cleared him and he’s feeling fine, although he will wear protective gear as a precaution. Witten, who has played in 139 consecutive regular-season games, was reportedly so eager to play that he offered to sign a waiver absolving the Cowboys and their doctors of any liability if he were to play and do further damage to his spleen — an offer the Cowboys declined. He was listed as doubtful. We would still suggest considering your options carefully before installing Witten as your starter. That doesn't apply to Nicks, who was listed as questionable and appears to be ready to go at something close to full speed.