Victor Cruz wants to make a run for it.
The Giants’ Pro Bowl receiver, out of action with a bruised left heel, plans on trying to run on flat ground by the end of the week and continues to target the Sept. 8 season-opener against the Cowboys for his return.
Cruz will not play in Thursday night’s preseason finale against the Patriots at Gillette Stadium.
“Absolutely. That’s definitely a date that, a target date for me,’’ Cruz said Tuesday of the season opener. “I want to come out get some days of practice in as well, once the doctors let me and the training staff lets me do so. We’re just taking it one day at a time.”
Cruz on Monday discarded the walking boot and crutches he’s been using since hurting his left heel in the Aug. 18 preseason victory over the Colts. He plans on trying to practice on Monday when the Giants are in regular-season mode and begin preparing for the Cowboys.
“I am going to work diligently this week while the team is away and focus on getting myself right and getting ready to practice potentially by next week,’’ Cruz said.
To get back on the field, Cruz said he’s been running on an AlterG anti-gravity treadmill, riding a bike, alternating between a cold and hot tub. He’s also trying to strengthen the area around the heel by “picking up marbles with my feet.’’