Dallas Cowboys: A star is born in rookie receiver Michael Gallup

With a single touchdown catch in his preseason debut, is rookie Michael Gallup destined to become the Dallas Cowboys next superstar wide receiver?

The Dallas Cowboys wide receiver corps has been the focus of much of this offseason’s media drama. From the release of longtime veteran Dez Bryant, the odd arrest of Terrance Williams to Cole Beasley unexplainable down 2017 season; this has been one of the most talked about positional groups in the sporting world.

Yet, coming off the Cowboys first preseason game of the year, things appear to be looking up for a unit many national pundits predicted would be one of the worst in the NFL. And that’s due in large part to the play of a rookie receiver who only recorded a single catch against the San Francisco 49ers last week.

That player, of course, being Michael Gallup. The third round selection out of Colorado State has been making highlight-reel catches all offseason. He’s also had his share of drops. But as a rookie, the latter is to be expected.

Last Thursday, Gallup fanned the flames of fan love after catching a 30-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Dak Prescott on the opening series of the game. His single reception appeared to answer two lingering questions at once. One about Prescott’s deep ball accuracy. And two, who will step up in the absence of veterans like Bryant and tight end Jason Witten.

According to NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks, the Cowboys might have found their next star player in Gallup.

"“The rookie receiver has been the buzz of Cowboys training camp as an athletic playmaker with WR1 potential. Gallup displayed those skills in the preseason opener when he raced past the 49ers’ defense on a 30-yard touchdown down the boundary. Although the score was his only catch of the night, the rookie showed Cowboys officials he might be ready for the big role when the season starts.”"

Gallup’s performance against the Niners’ starting defense was a great way to kick off his rookie campaign. But the 22-year old has had his good and bad days this offseason. Consistency will be his biggest obstacle in year one.

But another solid performance this Saturday against the Cincinnati Bengals in the team’s preseason home opener could herald the arrival of the Cowboys’ next superstar wide receiver.

In two seasons at Colorado State, Michael Gallup put up incredible numbers. During his junior year, Gallup posted 76 receptions for 1,272 yards and 14 touchdowns. The following season, he recorded even better numbers with 100 catches for 1,413 yards and seven scores. The Dallas Cowboys certainly hope the rookie receiver is able to bring that kind of production to Big D.