“As training camp gets closer, which positions do you feel confident about and which are you nervous about?”
(@Craig Sykes on Facebook)
Mike: Quarterback, tight end, offensive guard and safety have the biggest votes of confidence. Wide receiver is close behind but that position rests in purgatory until the CeeDee Lamb situation gets resolved. The offensive line as a total group is unnerving based on two rookies starting, and we have questions on Terence Steele. The guard position is one place that’s both talented and durable with Zack Martin and Tyler Smith.
The defensive tackle position creates the most anxiety. There is no doubt they will add to this position during camp as there just isn’t any depth. Another questionable position is running back. The questions revolve around what’s the plan for Ezekiel Elliott and his snap count, what’s Rico Dowdle going to look like and how many carries will he get, and how efficient will this ‘running back committee’ actually be by the time the regular season kicks off.
Dana: While it may not be the most exciting answer, I’ve got a lot of confidence in the kickers on the Cowboys. Bryan Anger and Brandon Aubrey (Banger and Butter) have both shown excellence and consistency in their play and have earned my trust and confidence, especially after last season. In 2023, Anger broke the record for average net yards per punt with 45.3 yards. Aubrey missed only one field goal the entire season, scoring more points than any other player in the NFL. Both earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro nods. Until proven otherwise, confidence in the kicking game couldn’t get any higher.
On the other side of the coin, the defensive tackle position is the most cloudy. Osa Odighizuwa is the most solidified player of the group, however he is nursing a hip injury. Mazi Smith still needs to prove himself after a disappointing rookie season. Carl Davis will work to get more playing time this season but spent a lot of 2023 on the practice squad after joining the team. The other two names in this group, Justin Rogers and Denzel Daxon, are both rookies. While it is possible that the clouds may dissipate after training camp and the preseason, it is hard to have a ton of confidence at the position right now.
Brad: Feel pretty good about the secondary, however they line up. Some safety depth there. I think the receivers will be a plus group. Have to be nervous about defensive tackle aside from Odigizuwa, and I’m not sure what the plan is for left tackle if Tyler Guyton doesn’t look ready. It would mean revamping the offensive line.
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