5 Dallas Cowboys who need a much stronger December

Dallas Cowboys who must improve in December

KaVontae Turpin, KR/PR

In his first year in the NFL, KaVontae Turpin has quickly established himself as one of the most feared returners here with the Dallas Cowboys. Turpin ranks 3rd in return yards/kick and fourth in return yards/punt. Despite all this positive output, more is expected.

Unrealistic expectations?

Perhaps, but after seeing Turpin return both a punt and a kick in a single game this preseason, most of Cowboys Nation expected at least one touchdown from the 5-foot-9 165lbs lightning bolt by Week 11.

After seeing him break free a time or two in the open field, it’s hard not to expect such big things from Turpin. If not in the return game then as a gadget man on offense.

Kellen Moore has drawn up a role for Turpin in a handful of offensive packages. Used in horizontal motion as well as downfield as a pass catcher, Turpin puts defenders on notice and opens things for teammates even when he isn’t directly involved on the play.

Turpin provides something to this offense the Dallas Cowboys desperately need – speed. Dallas is severely lacking in the speed department and having someone like Turpin who can stretch the field a variety of ways is important (also why there’s a role for Odell Beckham Jr).

Whether its as a returner or an offensive player, the Cowboys need something big from their smallest man on the roster.