"Dolphins center Jake Grove and linebacker Channing Crowder did not make the trip to Dallas on Thursday because of injuries -- but both players are still eyeing a return to action by the start of the regular season, multiple sources said Thursday.

Crowder's absence was expected, but the decision to keep Grove at home came as somewhat of a surprise. He was present at the start of both practices Monday and Tuesday.

Grove is dealing with an issue in the AC joint of his shoulder, and Crowder has an issue related to his lower abdominal area. An update on the status of both players isn't likely until Monday, when the team resumes practice.

Even then, the Dolphins do not need to formally release an injury report until Wednesday. If Grove is prepared to play in the season opener against the Bills on Sept. 12, it doesn't mean he will be the starter.

Earlier this week, coach Tony Sparano was unwilling to say whether he had decided on Joe Berger or Grove as his starting center. Berger started Thursday's game, and he was replaced late in the half by third-string center Andrew Hartline.

The competition at center has lasted longer than any other position battle in training camp. Grove, who signed a five-year contract last year worth $29.5 million, was slated as the starter in early August before injuries began slowing him down -- and Berger began pushing for more time."