Preseason is a weird time in the football year when individual success matters more than wins or losses. While the Cowboys did get a victory Saturday night in Seattle, the players are more concerned with how they personally contributed to that outcome, and especially if they’re still fighting for roster spots. For four of Dallas’ undrafted rookies, it was a good night.
WR Camden Brown
Of course, the star of the evening has to be discussed. Brown’s two touchdown catches, part of a three-catch, 62-yard performance
overall, made him the story of the game.
They weren’t just ho-hum touchdown catches, either. From beating tight coverage to showing off the single-hand skills, Brown was making the plays.
For some fans, it put Brown on their radar in a demonstrative way. But for those who have been tapped into training camp and following all the reports, it was an escalation of Brown’s rising momentum towards making the roster.
TE Michael Trigg
Trigg took full advantage of his opportunities as well, leading Dallas with four catches and 30 receiving yards. While none of his plays made the highlight reel, three of Trigg’s receptions helped sustain drives that led to both of the Cowboys’ touchdowns. He displayed the mismatch problem that he presents with his athleticism against linebackers and size against defensive backs. Trigg’s candidadcy for the bottom of the TE depth chart has been discussed a lot this summer, and his first preseason game did nothing to hurt that case.
DT Kelvin Gilliam
While not as noticeable as his offensive teammates, Gilliam had a strong night down in the trenches. He led all of the DTs with three tackles and appeared to be disruptive at times.
It’s hard to say how many defensive tackles the Cowboys will keep on the 53, but Gilliam seems like a contender for a potential last spot. Dallas will likely want one more guy to play the prototypical 3-4 end, and Gilliam fits that profile with his size and power. Some more games like this one could pave the way.
WR Jordan Hudson
While he wasn’t going to get much love after Camden Brown stole the show, Hudson had a nice moment with a tough catch in the middle of the field. It showcased strong hands and awareness, with the Seattle broadcaster praising Hudson’s ability to make the play despite the ball going past his field of vision. As the SMU product tries to stick around in Dallas, at the very least on the practice squad, it was a nice play to show off some special skills.
