The Dallas Cowboys have a short week, as they are set to host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday Night Football. While the passing game runs through CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, this matchup benefits tight end Jake Ferguson.
It hasn't been a good start to the year for Ferguson, which has been disappointing for him, the team, and fans. After four games, he has compiled 12 catches for 83 receiving yards and three touchdowns.
That production needs to be better, but this contest against Tampa Bay could be the game that he needs to get him going.
Cowboys TE Jake Ferguson has breakout potential vs. the Buccaneers
Entering this contest, the Bucs have had their fair share of trouble slowing down tight ends. The middle of their defense, especially at linebacker, is their weak point. These are how fellow tight ends produced against Tampa Bay thus far.
- Mike Gesicki: five catches, 78 receiving yards, one touchdown (7 targets)
- Harold Fannin Jr.: five catches, 54 receiving yards (6 targets)
- Tucker Kraft: six catches, 42 receiving yards, one touchdown (7 targets)
During each of those games, these tight ends were either first or second on the team in catches and yards. Considering some of the receiver talent on these clubs, that's a telling sign of how the Bucs can be exploited.
With guys like Lamb and Pickens on the outside, they will draw plenty of attention, which is beneficial for Ferguson.
Just last week against the Texans, Ferguson didn't play his best. As a blocker, he left much to be desired and needs to play with more effort in that department, especially when he's tasked with chipping the edge defender. And as a pass catcher, he only had three catches for 11 yards.
His season high has been 43 receiving yards, and that came in Week 2 against the Commanders. Although it's been a slow start for him in 2026, things can quickly pick up in this game.
Josiah Trotter and Alex Anzalone are the top two linebackers for the Bucs, and both guys have struggled in coverage. Anzalone has allowed 15 catches on 16 targets for 128 receiving yards in four games. Meanwhile, Trotter has allowed nine catches on 11 targets for 101 yards.
Through four games, the Bucs are allowing tight ends to average 6.5 catches for 68.3 yards per game, per KofSports.
Dak Prescott loves to lean on Ferguson as his safety blanket underneath and based on the struggles from Tampa Bay, the Wisconsin product could have his best game yet. That would be great for his confidence and allow him to build momentum going forward.
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