In Frisco, Texas, the Dallas Cowboys’ OTA practices kicked off with their first media availability on Wednesday. The team initially practiced outdoors on the grass field, but inclement weather forced them inside the Ford Center for the latter part of the session.
Several players were absent for various reasons, including CeeDee Lamb (holdout), Micah Parsons (personal decision), Zack Martin, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Trevon Diggs (injury-related). Additionally, others were either working with the rehab group or sidelined due to injuries, such as Mazi Smith, Luke Schoonmaker, DeMarvion Overshown, Osa Odighizuwa, John Stephens Jr., and David Durden.
Here are further observations from Wednesday’s practice:
– Ezekiel Elliott is seen as the leader in the running backs’ group, but there’s already a hint of a committee approach, with him and Rico Dowdle sharing most of the first-team reps.
– Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe are vying for starting roles in 2024, starting their journey with second-team reps while Chuma Edoga and Brock Hoffman took the starting roles.
– The competition for WR3 is fierce, with Jalen Tolbert, Jalen Brooks, and KaVontae Turpin all making noteworthy plays during drills.
– Trey Lance showed confidence with well-placed throws, particularly connecting with undrafted wide receiver Corey Crooms.
– Defensive rookies like Marshawn Kneeland and Marist Liufau showcased their skills against the starting offensive line.
– Dak Prescott’s leadership and confidence were evident, with his familiar cadence setting the tone for the offense.
– Mike Zimmer’s defensive scheme suggests the likely use of three linebackers, with Damone Clark, Eric Kendricks, and Marist Liufau taking first-team reps.
– Trey Lance found reliable targets in rookies Ryan Flournoy and Jalen Cropper, who displayed strong hands and consistency.
– DeMarvion Overshown, while still rehabbing, appeared notably larger in his upper body, indicating preparation for a significant role in 2024.
– Mazi Smith seemed to maintain his weight from the previous season, while Osa Odighizuwa appeared slimmer. Coach Mike McCarthy declined to comment on Smith’s ideal playing weight for 2024.
