Training camp is where roster battles are decided, but some of the most interesting work in Oxnard come from players competing on opposite sides of the football. The Cowboys have a strong mix of established stars and young players looking to break out, which should create plenty of entertaining one-on-one matchups.
These battles will not determine starting jobs on their own, but tell us a lot about which players are improving, who may be ready for a bigger role and where Dallas could still have concerns
entering the season. Here are eight matchups Cowboys fans should be watching closely throughout training camp this year.
8. Anthony Smith vs. Devin Moore
This rookie-on-rookie matchup could affect the back end of two unsettled position groups. Smith’s size and vertical speed will test Moore’s ability to turn and run, while Moore’s length should challenge Smith to beat press coverage and win contested catches.
7. Drew Shelton vs. L.T. Overton
Two fourth-round rookies will have plenty to prove when the pads come on. Shelton’s athleticism will test Overton’s ability to push the edge, while Overton’s power and versatility should provide an early examination of Shelton’s technique and anchor.
6. Brevyn Spann-Ford vs. Jalen Thompson
Spann-Ford has an opportunity to overtake Luke Schoonmaker and establish himself as the Cowboys’ second tight end. His size will create problems at the catch point, but Thompson’s experience, instincts and physicality should provide a difficult test in both coverage and the running game.
5. Jaydon Blue vs. Jaishawn Barham
This should be one of the most athletic battles in camp. Blue’s speed will test Barham’s pursuit angles and open-field tackling, while Barham can challenge the running back’s pass protection when he is used as a blitzer.
4. Ryan Flournoy vs. DaRon Bland
Flournoy is trying to maintain his role as the third receiver after showing progress last season. Facing an instinctive ballhawk such as Bland will force him to sharpen his routes and consistently create separation. Bland will also use the matchup to prove he is healthy and ready to reclaim his place as Dallas’ top cornerback.
3. Terence Steele vs. Donovan Ezeiruaku
Steele remains one of the biggest concerns on the offensive line, while Ezeiruaku is looking to make a second-year jump. Ezeiruaku’s speed and bend should test Steele’s footwork, while Steele’s strength will reveal whether the young pass rusher can handle the physical demands of playing every down.
2. CeeDee Lamb vs. Caleb Downs
There may not be a better learning opportunity for Downs than covering Lamb from the slot. Lamb’s releases, route running and understanding of leverage will punish mistakes, but those daily repetitions could accelerate the rookie’s development and prepare him for a major role in the secondary.
1. George Pickens vs. Shavon Revel Jr.
Pickens against Revel could be the most entertaining matchup of training camp. Pickens is a physical receiver who excels at the catch point, making him the perfect test for Revel’s technique, confidence and ball skills. With Revel another year removed from his ACL injury, this battle should show how far the young cornerback has developed.
