Dallas Cowboys: 5 worst predictions for 2017
With it being the last day of 2017, here are the five worst predictions we made about the Dallas Cowboys before the start of the season.
The end of a year brings reflection as we look back on what was 2017. For the Dallas Cowboys, New Year’s Eve marks both the end of their regular season, a Week 17 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, and the start of the offseason.
Before we dive head first into 2018, let’s look back on this year. At the beginning of the Cowboys season, we made some wild predictions about the future of America’s Team. Let’s see just how wrong we were.
#1 – Maliek Collins, Sack leader
Lost in the draft hype of rookies like quarterback Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott was the solid first season third round selection Maliek Collins had in 2016. The defensive tackle posted 23 tackles and 5.0 sacks in year one. And that was despite missing a majority of his offseason training due to a broken foot.
With a full offseason under his belt in 2017, we thought Collins would be able to raise his level of play and lead the Cowboys in sacks this season. Instead, the 22-year old all but disappeared and seemed to take a step back in his development in his second season.
#2 – No Sophomore Slump for Dak
After posting one of the greatest rookie seasons by a quarterback in NFL history, talk of a possible sophomore slump for Dak Prescott seemed ridiculous at the time. Especially considering he’d had so much success without many offseason snaps.
Now considered the main man under center, Prescott would have more opportunity to grow, learn the playbook and develop into an even better passer. Unfortunately, the slump happened and Dak played some of the worst games of his life in 2017.
#3 – Cowboys return to the postseason, Super Bowl run
After posting a 13-3 record in 2016, this year’s version of the Dallas Cowboys seemed destined for a Super Bowl run. Instead, injuries, suspensions, poor coaching and inconsistent play plagued the Cowboys in 2017. Although they have a chance to finish the season with a wining record, the fact they are not even in playoff contention is depressing.
#4 – Cole Beasley builds on career season
After leading the Cowboys with a career high of 75 receptions in 2016, wide receiver Cole Beasley appeared to be on the brink of stardom in Dallas. Considered to be one of the best slot receivers in the NFL last year, this season’s all out disappearance has been shocking. Beasley recorded just 36 catches in 2017 and was widely ignored. The sudden status change from dynamic offensive weapon to forgotten gadget player has been eye-opening.
#5 – Byron Jones has a Pro Bowl year
Man, we were way off here! As a former first rounder and certified athletic phenom, safety Byron Jones has always seemed to be on the edge of being special in Dallas. But after a solid rookie season, Jones’ play has plateaued. He worked hard this offseason to improve his playmaking ability. But it didn’t work. Through 15 games, Jones has just one interception. That’s two picks in three years for those who are counting.
Next: Dallas Cowboys - The five worst losses of the 2017 season
In fact, Byron Jones’ game took a step back in 2017 and the Dallas Cowboys started benching him for it. Now, swapping out every other series with hard-hitting safety Kavon Frazier, the former high draft pick may need to move back to corner in order to rejuvenate his career.