The Dallas Cowboys and the advantage of not having a No. 1 WR

The Dallas Cowboys are about to experience one of the only advantages of NOT having a clear No. 1 receiver on the roster.

At the risk of sounding sarcastic, it’s worth acknowledging that there are a couple of advantages to not having a No. 1 receiver. No, really! Besides the obvious financial savings of not employing an elite pass-catcher, there are also match-up situations and the opponent’s (mis)allocation of resources.

For the past few decades, teams have placed a premium on top-end cover corners. Over the years, teams have invested countless time and resources in their quest for that elusive shutdown cornerback. Today, even pedestrian cornerbacks are paid among the highest on the roster.

Why?

If they can neutralize, or at the very least limit, the opposition’s top playmaker, they can force the opposition lean on one of their less-dangerous weapons. It’s a solid plan to be sure. Unless, of course, there is no dangerous receiving weapon to be neutralized.

Don’t put a perfectly good Jalen Ramsey to waste

Cornerback Jalen Ramsey is considered one of the most promising young defensive backs in the league. At only 23-years-of-age, Ramsey has already established himself as the best cornerback in the game. It’s safe to say the former top-5 pick has more than lived up to his lofty draft status (even if he doesn’t play with the ball in his hands or rush the passer).

Week to week, he essentially eliminates the offenses best receiving weapon. When the player he’s eliminating is Julio Jones, Antonio Brown, or Odell Beckham Jr, his value is immense. But when that player is Allen Hurns (8 receptions, 84 yards, 1 touchdown), it’s kinds a waste of resources.

The Dallas Cowboys have no clear No. 1 WR on their roster. On this rag tag committee, it really doesn’t matter who’s getting the ball or who’s not getting the ball. If Deonte Thompson, Michael Gallup, or Hurns gets “shut down” it’s no big deal.