5 Cowboys Playing for Their Jobs in Training Camp
4. Josh Ball, OT
The Cowboys are blessed to have one of the better offensive lines in the NFL. Having gifted blockers like Zack Martin, Tyler Smith, and now Tyler Guyton makes the offense's life that much easier. With that being said, roster spots are limited, meaning Josh Ball could be one of the odd men out.
The Cowboys invested a 2021 fourth-round pick on the former Marshall blocker, however, it's clear that investment hasn't paid off. Ball has barely seen any action throughout the last three seasons, playing just 105 total snaps (64 special teams, 41 offense) across 13 career games with each of those appearances taking place during the 2022 campaign.
Ball didn't touch the gridiron in 2023 and that likely had to do with his shortcomings in the previous year. Although his 86.2 run block grade across 25 rushing plays was solid, his putrid 29.1 pass block grade on 17 passing downs left much to be desired.
Ball is still young enough (26) to have a solid career ahead of him, but he has to step up before the Cowboys give up hope. The 2024 year also marks the final year on his rookie contract, meaning he might be spending next season outside of Dallas if he can't convince McCarthy's staff that he's ready for a serious role.