The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for their first preseason game as they finalize preparations during training camp. After a joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams in Oxnard, California, the Cowboys will head north to face the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Seattle Seahawks, on Saturday. This matchup will provide the Cowboys with an opportunity to assess their roster as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.
In anticipation of the game, the Cowboys' press room shared the unofficial depth chart, offering a glimpse into the team's player hierarchy as established during training camp. This chart is significant as it highlights the competitions for starting positions and backup roles, which could influence the team's final roster decisions.
One of the most pressing questions for the Cowboys is regarding their offensive line. The starting five has been set with Tyler Guyton, Tyler Smith, Cooper Beebe, Tyler Booker, and Terence Steele holding down the fort from left to right. Behind them, TJ Bass is positioned as the top backup, while Nate Thomas and rookie Drew Shelton round out a group of eight offensive linemen. The team is contemplating whether to carry a ninth or even tenth lineman, with late-round pick Ajani Cornelius vying for a spot. The versatility of Tyler Smith, who can play both guard and tackle, adds another layer to their decision-making.
At the running back position, Jaydon Blue has emerged as a frontrunner to back up starter Javon Williams. Despite a rocky start to his rookie season, Blue has shown significant improvement, demonstrating a renewed focus and making several impactful plays during camp. His performance has put him ahead of fellow second-year back Phil Mafah, who has also impressed. The Cowboys may consider carrying four running backs, including fullback Hunter Luepke, as they finalize their roster.
The unofficial depth chart also reveals intriguing competitions, particularly where the coaching staff has opted to use the word "or" between players. This indicates ongoing battles for positions, notably in the backup quarterback race between Joe Milton and Sam Howell, as well as at off-ball linebacker with Sam Williams and rookie Malachi Lawrence. Similarly, the cornerback position features Shavon Revel and Cobie Durant in a tight contest.
While the top four wide receivers appear to be clear, with CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens leading the charge, the battle for the fifth spot remains competitive. Ryan Flournoy has made a significant leap from being cut last season to aiming for a 1,000-yard season. Kavontae Turpin continues to serve as a versatile option in the offense. Competing for the WR5 and possibly WR6 positions are veteran Marquez Valdes-Scantling, who brings experience, Jonathan Mingo, who has shown physicality in camp, and rookie Anthony Smith, known for his speed.
Despite these competitions, it's important to note that head coach Brian Schottenheimer is unlikely to play his starters or key contributors in the upcoming game against the Seahawks. The real evaluation of the team's core players will occur during joint practices, where they can refine their strategies against another team. The Cowboys' improved performance in their recent practice against the Rams has raised expectations, and how they fare against the Seahawks will shed light on the depth of their roster as they aim for a successful season.
Leave a Comment