How Should the Cowboys Approach Their Depth at Wide Receiver?
After facing receiver challenges for the past couple of seasons, the Dallas Cowboys have finally paired CeeDee Lamb with another star receiver in George Pickens through a trade this past offseason. These two, combined with the elite play of Dak Prescott, have skyrocketed this Dallas offense into the best in the NFL. The Dallas wide receiver room has become competitive as they look for a third receiver, along with other open spots. With Lamb and Pickens leading the way, the team now has various options to consider. At first, Dallas struggled to find receivers who could contribute, but as it looks now, they have a plethora of options to look at.
The Cowboys, entering this season, were looking at Jalen Tolbert to take the next step that they have been anticipating since they drafted him; however, he has simply not been able to show consistency. KaVontae Turpin has capitalized on his opportunity, emerging as a reliable option for Prescott on third downs. He also possesses a unique ability to stretch the defense, a trait shared only with Pickens. Ryan Flournoy, after his breakout game against the Jets in New York, has started to become a more trusted weapon for Prescott. The Cowboys are even awaiting the return of Jonathan Mingo from injury in the coming weeks as well. Mingo struggled to show flashes last season after the midseason trade, but the absence of Prescott is a major indicator of why.
Now the question remains for the Cowboys' coaching staff to determine who will get the majority of the reps behind the two star receivers. The first clear choice is Turpin, whose dynamic skill set can take over games for the Cowboys, solidifying his position on the depth chart. The second player who deserves the reps is Flournoy. Since Lamb's injury, Flournoy has stepped up and expressed his willingness to take on any role, whether that involves jet sweeps, deep passes, or handling the dirty work underneath. He has consistently delivered results. It is a difficult path for Mingo to get consistent reps, as he’s the least acquainted in the room and has the least amount of time with Prescott, but his big frame gives Dallas a major red zone threat, which can be utilized properly. That leaves the last one being Tolbert, which is a tough ask for the Cowboys to do, considering they still very much believe in him and want him to prove them right for selecting him in the third round back in 2022, but he has been the least productive one. All these players are likely to still get playing time throughout the season; however, Dallas has to make sure the correct players get the playing time they deserve.
