It's been nearly three months since Raiders' starting strong safety, Tyvon Branch, left the field with an ankle injury. At the time it was rumored to have been a broken fibula although it was never officially confirmed by the Raiders. Judging by his down time, that seems pretty accurate.

Dennis Allen spoke to the media on Friday following the Raiders' Thanksgiving loss to the Cowboys in Dallas and he was optimistic about Branch returning this week.

"They took Tyvon out on the field today and worked him out," said Allen. "I don't know exactly how that went. But, I am hopeful that he can be back out at practice and begin getting himself back ready to play."

If Branch is able to return, coach Allen sees no reason he would need much time to get back into things which could mean Branch plays Sunday when the Raiders visit the New York Jets.

Branch was injured in the Raiders' week two match-up with the Jaguars which means he has already missed ten games. The Raiders could very much use his services as soon as possible. A month ago would have been preferable.

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