3 Cowboys already tumbling down the depth chart at training camp

Training camp is only a week old and players wore pads for the first time Monday, but we're already starting to get an understanding of what the Dallas Cowboys depth chart could look like to start the regular season.

Backup running back, fourth-string cornerback, fourth-string receiver and various backup spots along the offensive line highlight some of the most notable position battles. While there's still weeks left of camp, it's become clear whom has a leg up in these various competitions.

Conversely, this means some players have taken a tumble down the depth chart. That's not to say these players can't climb back up the totem pole, but these three in particular have experienced a rough start in Oxnard.

3. Josh Ball, OL

With Zack Martin holding out in search of a raise or new contract altogether, there's plenty of offensive line reps to go around. Matt Farniok got the nod at right guard in Martin's wake to start camp, but Ball has gotten work, too.

A big takeaway from Monday's padded practice was that Dallas' offensive line depth struggled containing the team's pass rush. Micah Parsons alone got home several times, while DeMarcus Lawrence breezed past Ball like a practice dummy during team drills for one of his multiple sacks.

While Lawrence uncorked a filthy drag move, Ball's footwork was shockingly lacking and nowhere where it needed to be to hinder the three-time Pro Bowler. It also doesn't help Ball's case that free agent pickup Chuma Edoga did a great job sealing the edge to give Dak Prescott time to locate his receivers.

The Cowboys converted Ball to guard this offseason after he started his career at tackle. The position better suits the former fourth-round pick, but he can't afford more reps like the one against Lawrence if he has any hope of carving out a role in 2023 behind Martin and Tyler Smith.