Dallas Cowboys: 3 questions heading into 2018 training camp
With training camp just one month away, here are three pressing questions for the Dallas Cowboys. What’s on your list? Here is my list.
It’s been a strange summer for the Dallas Cowboys.
First off, the fabric of the organization lost its soul when Dez Bryant was released. Then, out of nowhere, tight end Jason Witten said goodbye.
It’s one thing to lose an iconic star. But to be down two in one offseason? That’s a tall order, one that requires a couple of deep breaths as the transition from the old to new occurs.
We are exactly one month away from training camp. And while summer football isn’t a time for worries, there are still a few lingering questions on my mind.
So, sit back. Sip some ice tea. Enjoy the list and feel free to comment below on your worries.
1. No number one. Dez Bryant bye, bye. No problem?
Though I applaud the Dallas Cowboys for cutting a player heading into their twilight years, the circumstance still gives me the jitters. Let’s be clear: Bryant is still an animal. He’ll be able to scare opponents and command coverages.
But this isn’t 2014 any longer. 2018 Bryant doesn’t deserve top coin and thus, the Cowboys made the right decision by not hanging on to the aging star.
Of course, this leaves a void, which brings me to worry number one. The training camp wars won’t help anyone sleep at night, but at least we’ll get some looks at the Dak Prescott friendly offense. Sure, Tavon Austin and Michael Gallup won’t become a Bryant overnight.
That’s not their DNA, and nobody is asking them to generate that production of sorts. Still, Bryant totaled 119 catches and 14 touchdowns in 29 games over the last two seasons. In that time span, he totaled 1,634 receiving yards.
2. Say hello to a new security blanket. But who is he?
It’s third and 10. The Dallas Cowboys need a first down. Now.
Tony Romo takes the snap, he finds Witten across the middle. First down. Cowboys move the chains. They are still in the game.
It’s fourth and long. The Cowboys are down in Washington, and they need to move the chains to stay in the game.
Prescott takes the snap. Witten fakes to the outside. He runs an inside post where Prescott hits him for a 15-yard gain. The Cowboys score three plays later.
How many times have we seen these scenarios pop out? The security blanket is gone now. The Cowboys have a huge gap to fill. And honestly, I don’t think this picture can come into focus until the Boys wear pads in live action.
So, I guess this anxiety around the tight end spot will have to continue into September when things get real.
3. Ramsey or Zeke? You pick.
Ok guys, don’t laugh. I’m not one to buy into Madden video game ratings, but it’s still fun to see how the game experts stack your favorites.
Well, the virtual world doesn’t like running back Ezekiel Elliott much. Despite missing six games last season, Madden has the star back at a 91-overall rating. Harsh? Maybe. Come on Madden fellas, really? Zeke is no 91 and we all know it.
https://twitter.com/nflnetwork/status/1008867005418500097
Next: Ranking every top-10 pick in Dallas Cowboys’ history
Interestingly, the game makers hooked up Jalen Ramsey with a 96 score. He’s the top CB in the game. Now, I’m not doubting the cornerback out of the Jacksonville Jaguars squad. It’s cool that the Ramsey and Zeke link will continue to unfold as both stars pave their ways through the NFL.
The Cowboys were right to grab Zeke fourth overall the 2016 NFL Draft. Ramsey went the next pick and packed for Florida.
In conclusion, the story isn’t over. The two young guns will meet on Dallas turf on October 14th. I can’t wait, can you?