Cowboys Camp Daily (Fri): Forced turnovers becoming a theme
By Reid Hanson
The Dallas Cowboys are just two days into their padded practices but some themes are starting to already develop…
Forcing turnovers has been a problem for the Cowboys defense in recent seasons. Despite stressing it in meetings, training camps, and practices the Cowboys have consistently been near the bottom of the league in the defensive turnover department.
The newly overhauled secondary is specifically stepping up. It’s not a matter of poor passes either. These are solid passes being picked off by playmakers making plays.
Anthony Brown is stepping up big and joining him are his rookie teammates:
Marquez White has had two very good days of practice.
— David Helman (@davidhelman_) July 28, 2017
Not gonna say Chido is a surprise, but he has looked as-advertised to this point. https://t.co/D2GMGY04pI
While David Helman may not be surprised by Chidobe Awuzie’s play, I sure am. And let it be known I entered camp with high hopes for Chido. But the second round pick has been everywhere this camp and looks like an absolute steal for the Cowboys so far.
Cowboys Camp welcomes Ronnie Hillman and Jourdan Lewis
Joining camp is freshly exonerated cornerback Jourdan Lewis and newly signed running back, Ronnie Hillman. Both should be fun to watch in camp because expectations appear to be all over the board regarding these two.
As discussed yesterday in Five Questions Facing the Secondary, it seems as though Orlando Scandrick, Nolan Carroll, and Cidobe Awuzie will be expected to be the top-3 CBs this season. BUT…it shouldn’t be surprising to see Anthony Brown or even Jourdan Lewis supplant them at some point in the season.
How quickly Lewis progresses as a pro will be fun to watch, but the kid has extraordinary ball skills that cannot be denied.
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Zeke Suspension?
As for Ronnie Hillman, some are speculating that he was signed because of the pending Zeke situation. While it’s very likely Zeke will be suspended, I’m not sure Hillman was brought in for that reason. The Cowboys need bodies at RB and aren’t as confident as they seem regarding their depth.
With that said, many are expecting to hear news of Zeke’s punishment before the weekend. Cowboys Nation is collectively holding their breath…
Injuries
Ryan Switzer went down in practice but it doesn’t appear too serious.
Ryan Switzer is down nursing what looks like his hamstring after a really nice catch and run. Trainers looking at him.
— David Helman (@davidhelman_) July 27, 2017
Ryan Switzer on hamstring injury: "I know my body well. Hopefully it is day to day." Said he's never injured his hamstring before.
— Brandon George (@DMN_George) July 28, 2017
Cause for concern?
All of the bad news that’s been swirling around the Dallas Cowboys this offseason is undeniable cause for concern. But according to a very intelligent and well respected man of football, Gil Brandt, Cowboys Nation should be excited.
https://twitter.com/Gil_Brandt/status/890778370740559873
Jaylon Smith!
No update for Jaylon Smith today. Like other players coming off injury, he’ll be given regular days off.
Next: 5 Questions facing the Cowboys' secondary
That’s all for this installment of Cowboys Daily. I’ll be back on Monday to summarize the weekend’s headlines from training camp. Have a great weekend and go Cowboys!