The Dallas Cowboys are in the thick of this year's organized team activities (OTAs), giving the fans and coaching staff alike a better sense of how the roster looks after a busy offseason. The NFL draft, free agency, and trade market have shaken up the Cowboys' roster ahead of head coach Brian Schottenheimer's inaugural season, leaving time to tell if enough changes were made to foster a postseason return.
Unsurprisingly, a good chunk of Cowboys fans have been waiting to hear how the new rookie class is performing. While names like Tyler Booker and Jaydon Blue haven't wasted any time stealing headlines, one of Dallas' first-year studs has flown under the radar so far.
Cowboys Rookie LB Shemar James is Flying Under Radar During OTAs
Rookie linebacker Shemar James is one Cowboy who hasn't gotten as much attention as his fellow fresh-faced peers. The 6-foot-1, 229-pounder hasn't made much noise since being drafted 152nd overall by America's Team in April.
Having said that, there's good reason to believe the ex-Florida Gator won't remain quiet for long.
James, 20, is coming off a career year that saw him record career-high totals regarding solo tackles (34) and broken-up passes (3), all while also tallying four lost yardage tackles and a pair of sacks in 13 games with the Gators. That's without mentioning the 68.1 run defense and 65.1 pass rush grades he finished with on Pro Football Focus, highlighting the type of versatility he brings to the table.
🏈 SEC Defensive Player of the Week: WK 12
— Southeastern Conference (@SEC) November 18, 2024
🐊 Shemar James@GatorsFB x #SECFB pic.twitter.com/flBfib4jlT
James knows how to use his hands well, and his reliable speed helps him be in the right place, at the right time. He'll help stop the run or attack the opposing quarterback if need be, and he isn't afraid to join the special teams action if need be, too.
His tackling does leave something to be desired, but that's something the Cowboys coaching staff can address throughout the offseason and his rookie contract. If Schottenheimer's staff can help get rid of any bad habits, James could be a key contributor on defense or special teams sooner rather than later.
He certainly has an opportunity to step up, seeing as a season-ending knee injury has left veteran LB DeMarvion Overshown's 2025 availability up in the air.
The Cowboys' offseason schedule will ramp up with June's mandatory minicamp followed by training camp and the NFL preseason. Needing to make more noise to secure a roster spot, don't expect James to fly under the radar for much longer.