The Dallas Cowboys wrapped up their OTAs last week and are preparing for their mandatory minicamp that is scheduled to start on June 10. During the offseason workouts, the Cowboys coaching staff got a chance to look at the rookies, newcomers, and veterans on the roster bubble for the first time before training camp. While there is plenty of time before head coach Brian Schottenheimer has to make a decision on the 53-man roster, one forgotten rookie has been taking big strides towards making the cut.
The Cowboys used nine draft picks to upgrade the roster, highlighted by guard Tyler Booker, defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku, and cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. Most of the focus has understandably been given to these early-round selections. Yet, it was a seventh-round selection that has emerged as a surprise candidate to play a role from day one.
Cowboys' Seventh-Round Pick Emerges as OTA Standout
Defensive tackle out of UCLA, Jay Toia, has been making a case for himself during OTAs. Last week, it was reported by Cowboys insiders that Toia was getting repeated work with the first-team Dallas defenders. He has already been called a "steal" of the draft by Brent Sobleski of the Bleacher Report.
Toia also fills a very important need for the Cowboys. He prides himself as a run stopper, and Dallas ranked as one of the worst rushing defenses in the NFL last year. Mazi Smith still hasn't established himself as the long-term solution at nose tackle in Dallas, opening a path for Toia as early as his rookie season.
The Cowboys re-signed Osa Odighizuwa in the offseason and brought in Solomon Thomas as a backup at defensive tackle. Mazi Smith should still be considered a lock to make the roster despite a disappointing start to his career. As the fourth option at DT, Toia should be considered the favorite, given the momentum he is riding from OTAs.
Things can change after minicamp and training camp, but it's obvious that Toia is one of the early offseason surprises for Dallas, turning heads already with his play.