A couple days ago we looked at the Dallas Cowboys buy and sell list so today we look the rookies and the longshots – specifically which ones to avoid and which ones to invest in
NFL players are a lot like stocks. We prognosticate based on facts, feelings, and opportunities. And yet at the end of the day, it’s all just speculation sure to blow up in our faces. The Dallas Cowboys are no different.
At this time last season we were foretelling the all-important role Tavon Austin the “web back” would have. Only to see that projection fall ridiculously short. But we march on. Collecting facts, sifting through our feelings, and weighing the situation all to come up with a few bright and shining examples of breakout players to watch
IPOs (rookie stocks)
Without a first round pick there isn’t and obvious choice as a good rookie investment. Connor McGovern will likely learn behind Connor Williams and Trysten Hill will likely learn behind Maliek Collins and maybe even Tyrone Crawford. It’s rare that interior linemen (on either side of the ball) hit the ground running in Year 1, so we should turn our attention elsewhere.
Considering how deep this Dallas Cowboys roster is, there’s also a good chance the last four guys don’t even make the roster. That’s why Tony Pollard is probably the man to buy. We’ve been burned before by the do-it-all RB/WR combo player (Tavon), but this time it feels different.
Even if Ezekiel Elliott doesn’t hold out, Pollard is gonna get his. How much will depend on a lot of variables but Pollard is a guy who can play running back and slot receiver with a decent level of proficiency.
Penny Stocks (long-shots)
More from Dallas Cowboys
- Dallas Cowboys Linebackers: 2023 Position Overview
- Ballhawk University: Why the Cowboys will be takeaway leaders
- Dallas Cowboys Player to Watch: Sleeper TE John Stephens, Jr.
- Dallas Cowboys: The impact of Micah Parsons and a well-rounded secondary
- Dallas Cowboys still unsure about their left guard position for 2023
Jalen Jelks DE – looking at the depth chart, I’m just not sure how this works. But if you’re going to take a swing on a longshot, you best pick someone who’s talented and versatile. Jelks is both.
Expected to go in rounds 4-5, Jelks fell to Dallas at pick 241. He looked explosive in mini camps and has quickly earned a place as a darkhorse player to watch in camp. If Jelks can play special teams and a little SAM, he may have a way onto this roster.
Jon’Vea Johnson WR – The Toledo Rocket hit the ground running in camp and looks like he’s going to make ton of noise in #CowboysCamp . At 6’0” 192lbs and a timed 4.38 40 at his Pro Day, Johnson has the size and speed to play at the NFL level. He’s fluid in his breaks and can man the slot position.
I’ve covered Jason Garrett long enough that I never expect coaches to give specific answers. So it was interesting that, when @LindsCashDraper asked Sanjay Lal if any WRs have surprised him at OTAs, he didn’t hesitate to bring up Jon’Vea Johnson. #cowboyswire pic.twitter.com/GP27I9tIxH
— David Helman (@davidhelman_) May 23, 2019
The Dallas Cowboys have a history of developing undrafted receivers and if you want to bet on one this year, Johnson is probably your guy.
Not mentioned: undrafted DT, Daniel Wise and undrafted OT Mitch Hyatt. I had them both making the team on my past two 53-man roster projections so since I think it’s their spots to lose.
- Published on 07/27/2019 at 12:00 PM
- Last updated at 07/27/2019 at 11:41 AM