The duo of CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens has become one of the premier wide receiver duos in the league in a short time. Entering the season, though, the Dallas Cowboys had questions as to who could be the consistent WR3 for Dak Prescott. After another strong showing on Thursday night against the Detroit Lions, Ryan Flournoy has essentially solidified himself as the guy.
Flournoy, a 2024 sixth-round draft pick, racked up nine catches for 115 yards and a touchdown in the loss to the Lions. He saw an increase in targets, especially when Lamb went out for the game with a concussion in the third quarter. With Pickens struggling to get going, head coach Brian Schottenheimer and Prescott proved they trusted the second-year player with making plays.
Ryan Flournoy Stepped Up for Cowboys in Week 14
Cowboys fans caught a glimpse of Flournoy’s potential in Week 5 against the New York Jets, which was another game in Lamb’s absence. Flournoy exploded for 104 yards in the first half and finished with 114 on nine catches. Now, him being able to duplicate that success is a clear indication of his rise within the Schottenheimer offense.
Prior to Thursday night’s game, wide receiver Jalen Tolbert was ruled a healthy inactive. At the time, it seemed like a head-scratching move, but now it doesn’t seem significant at all. Despite his lack of production, Tolbert has been somewhat of an iron man for the Cowboys, being that third receiver. However, it’s been very hard to ignore how much he has fallen from the graces of the offense. His inability to create separation and lack of size to compete for balls became an issue, but was masked by the Pickens acquisition.
However, Lamb’s health is now a big question mark again, and Flournoy will likely be asked to continue this level of play, if not more. If Cowboys fans have learned anything from the Schottenheimer regime so far, it is that he will empower and trust guys who are riding a hot hand.
On one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL, the Cowboys may have found another gem late in the draft. As the team continues to fight for a playoff spot, Flournoy will be given ample opportunity to show he is here to stay.