Previewing the Training Camp Battles of the Dallas Cowboys (Offense)
By John Herndon
3. Dallas Cowboys Wide Receivers
The three spots in the game’s starting lineup have already been filled by CeeDee Lamb, Brandin Cooks, and Michael Gallup. Jalen Tolbert and Simi Fehoko are up next to fight for wide receiver spots.
Jalen Tolbert’s youth and talent make it unwise for Dallas to abandon him after a shaky rookie season. Like Tolbert, Simi Fehoko’s youth and talent make him an intriguing case. Unlike Jalen Tolbert, the Cowboys didn’t use a third-round pick on him.
Fehoko, who stands at 6-3 and weighs 220lbs, is a physically imposing wide receiver who possesses 4.3 speed. A lot of people were expecting improvement in the second year, but it never came.
In week 4, Fehoko suffered a shoulder injury and was out for the season. Will Fehoko finally prove himself as more than a practice player this year? It wasn’t until his third season that Miles Austin made a contribution.
It will be interesting to see who claims the 4th wide receiver position. Even though it’s not a high volume spot, who will rise to the occasion and make plays when needed?
The Dallas Cowboys have a decision to make regarding the number of wide receivers they will keep on their 53-man roster, with the big question being whether they will opt for five or six.
Even though KaVontae Turpin is not expected to be among the team’s top productive pass catchers, he’s projected to fill the role of kick/punt returner. The team will face competition from two undrafted free agent players who have potential and are looking to prove themselves.
Jalen Moreno-Cropper and David Durden, two undrafted rookies, are worth watching. Past evidence shows that wide receivers often come to light during preseason and camp practices.
Cropper moves smoothly in and out of breaks. Boasts a complete route tree, outstanding ball tracking, and exceptional agility and speed.
He has the ability to play as a returner and a versatile receiver who can play in any position across the line. Moreno-Cropper plays bigger than his listed size despite his smaller frame.
David Durden game tape really impresses me, even though there’s a huge gap between West Florida and the NFL.
He has a solid build, quick feet, and NFL-level speed. He poses a threat after the catch and keeps up his speed after breaking free, while also fighting for contested balls.
Possesses versatility in special teams as both a returner and gunner. A competitive wide receiver with an alpha mentality.
David Durden’s game tape is loved by more than just me. The Athletic named him “the most overlooked player in the draft.”
"“We’ve had a lot of love for this guy. We’ve been on David for a long time.” – Cowboys director of college scouting Mitch LaPoint"
Had Durden played for a more prominent college sports program. I believe he had the potential to be among the top 100 prospects.
The Cowboys have a remarkable track record with undrafted free agents. Players such as Drew Pearson, Miles Austin, and Cole Beasley.
4. Dallas Cowboys Tight Ends
The top tight end position, previously held by Dalton Schultz for three years, is now open. Who is likely to take on this role?
The most interesting tight end to watch closely at the start of camp is Luke Schoonmaker, who had a foot problem that limited his involvement in OTAs and minicamp.
Provided that injuries don’t hinder his progress, the Cowboys anticipate that Schoonmaker will have a smooth transition from college to professional football.
Despite contributing full-time for two seasons at Michigan, Schoonmaker has only had moderate production, with only one season standing out. One of Schoonmaker’s notable attributes is his elite athleticism.
He possesses natural hands and is an impressive athlete, making him a versatile receiver who can win in both in-line and space.
Having been selected in the fourth round last year, Jake Ferguson now has a year of experience that has helped him develop. Ferguson’s performance last season left a lasting impression on me. As a receiver and blocker, he displayed remarkable physicality throughout the entire season.
Additionally, Peyton Hendershot, who was an undrafted rookie last year, will also have the chance to take on a more significant role. Although he needs to improve as a blocker, he demonstrated great effort. I believe he has the potential to develop as a player this year. Dallas unearths gems in both players.
Along with the other candidates, it is our opinion that Sean McKeon should also be considered for the mix. His availability for the past couple of years has been limited as a result of the injuries he has sustained.
Princeton Fant, an undrafted TE, has a lot of potential and may end up on the practice squad. John Stephens Jr., a former college wide receiver, possesses the build and speed of a pass-catching tight end.