Cowboys draft steal Cooper Beebe already turning heads at OTAs

The Dallas Cowboys have had a quiet offseason so their incoming draft class needs to be a roaring success for them to reach their potential in 2024. While there's reason to be excited for Tyler Guyton, Marshawn Kneeland and even Maris Liufau, who's already impressed Mike Zimmer, no pick has generated more buzz than third-rounder Cooper Beebe.

Beebe was one of the country's best offensive linemen over the last two seasons. He played largely left guard and right tackle, but he saw close to 800 snaps at left tackle and even worked at right guard during the 2021 season.

The only position Beebe didn't play a single snap at was center, which ironically is where he's expected to play (and start) for the Cowboys.

While Beebe has vast experience at left guard, nobody would hold it against him if he struggled moving to center. Well, the early indicators from rookie minicamp and OTAs are overwhelmingly positive. In short, Beebe already looks like a natural at his new position.

Cowboys' 2024 draft pick Cooper Beebe already turning heads at OTAs

Immediately following the draft, Dallas offensive line coach Mike Solari instructed Beebe to start working at center. It seems the early start is paying off.

Per Cowboys writer Patrik Walker of the team's official website, Beebe is "already showing some command and comfort at center." Walker also noted that the Kansas State product is calling out blitzes and has been boisterous with his pre-snap communication. Those are two must-have intangibles for a center.

It's important not to overreact to one practice -- let alone one without pads and no permitted contact -- but OTAs and minicamp are paramount for rookies as far as learning the playbook, pre-snap cadence and other particulars that get overlooked on game day.

Even if Beebe endures some growing pains blocking at a new position, Cowboys fans aren't at all concerned about his ability to move defenders. Over four years at KSU, Beebe allowed 25 pressures on 1,488 pass-blocking snaps, per PFF. His 79.9 run-blocking grade in 2023 ranked 22nd among guards and he's the first offensive lineman in Kansas State history to earn consensus All-America honors.

The Cowboys have never had a player with Beebe's size and physicality at the center position. The fact he's already showing command and making strides with pre-snap communication just underlines the notion that Beebe was a steal with the No. 73 overall pick.

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