8 biggest surprises and disappointments for Cowboys so far in 2022

Surprise: Cooper Rush, QB

When the Cowboys turned to Cooper Rush on Halloween in 2021, no one really knew what to expect. He had thrown just three career passes at that point but he became an instant hero for Dallas when he led them to a win over the Vikings.

Now in 2022, he continues to deliver victories. He’s started three games so far and led the Cowboys to three wins. That also put him in the record books since he’s the first quarterback in franchise history to win his first four career starts.

There’s nothing flashy about Rush’s play but he just gets the job done. He’s never rattled and has shown a willingness to deliver the deep pass as well when it’s there.

Rush has thrown for 737 yards with four touchdown passes and no interceptions — although he did have a couple overturned against Washington. He’s kept Dallas on task while Prescott recovers and gives them no reason to rush No. 4 back onto the field.

Disappointment: Jalen Tolbert, WR

When the Cowboys traded Amari Cooper to the Browns, they did very little to replace him. Their only additions were James Washington, a free agent signing from Pittsburgh, and Jalen Tolbert, a rookie third-round pick from South Alabama.

Tolbert was an intriguing prospect that had a high ceiling but so far hasn’t done much of anything. He was inactive in Weeks 1 and 2 and had just one reception for four yards in Week 3. He had a shot at more but was unable to haul in a deep pass on third down during that game.

He was again missing in Week 4, meaning he has one catch for four yards. That’s far from what was expected.

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