3 fringe Cowboys players who will make the roster, 2 who won't
By Ryan Heckman
Jalen Brooks, WR
Having already established the hierarchy of wide receivers in Dallas, that would make the first man out this year's seventh-round pick, Jalen Brooks. While Brooks might not see his name on the final, 53-man roster, he will still be well-worth stashing on the practice squad.
The 6-foot-1 Brooks has much to improve on, and his poor combine will likely allow for the Cowboys to keep him on the practice squad. He didn't run well (4.69) and has had a tough time separating. But, his strength and ball skills are excellent. He's highly competitive on 50/50 balls and can make plays after the catch.
Rico Dowdle, RB
The final running back spot could go either way in Dallas. It's going to be an interesting summer. Behind Tony Pollard are Malik Davis and this year's rookie Deuce Vaughn, who should be locks to make the team. If Dallas keeps a fourth running back, though, it will be between Rico Dowdle and Ronald Jones.
I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm giving Jones one more shot to establish a spot on a team in the NFL. He's a former first-round pick for a reason, and really hasn't had a lot of run over his career. This is a team that can use all of the talent possible in order to make a Super Bowl run, and I have Jones making the roster.
Of course, I could be wrong. Instead of stashing Dowdle on the practice squad, he and Jones could have reversed roles, with Jones going to the practice squad.