Dallas Cowboys fans would be smart to listen to Dan Campbell’s honest words ahead of the start of OTAs on Monday
Dallas Cowboys OTAs are right around the corner and it’s time to get excited about it. But not too excited. Just ask Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell.
When the Dallas Cowboys take the field on OTAs next Monday, you can expect plenty of hype. I get it. In a way, it’s the first big step NFL teams take toward the return of football in the fall.
But there’s a reason why most of my content previewing Cowboys OTAs has been mostly about who is lining up where and not about position battles, etc. And I believe Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell sent a message Cowboys fans should keep in mind ahead of next week.
Cowboys OTAs aren’t that big of a deal
The Lions started OTAs a few days ago and upon being asked who had stood out, Campbell hit reporters with a very honest response.
“There are a lot of guys who have done well for two days in pajamas,” Campbell said. “I’m done with the hype of the pajama party in May. We’ll find out in training camp who’s who.”
Though Campbell was talking about his Lions, his words can be applied to every NFL team. In OTAs, pads aren’t even on and contact is minimal. So, if you’re hoping to learn who will win the starting job at cornerback, edge rusher, linebacker, and other spots, you have another thing coming your way.
As Campbell says, all that is defined in training camp. And the Cowboys won’t report to camp until late July. Instead, what fans should focus on during OTAs comes down to two things:
- What players and coaches are saying about the team, scheme, etc. Actual intel from those on the team.
- Initial pecking order on the depth chart and player alignments. Who is taking reps with the first and second team? And where is each player lining up? (i.e. is Tyler Smith seeing reps at tackle or sticking to guard?)
So what really happens in OTAs?
Though the Cowboys won’t be making roster decisions off of OTAs, they still matter a lot. It’s one of the biggest opportunities the coaching staff gets to teach the playbook and technique. Such lessons take place in the classroom and on the field.
For Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who emphasizes team culture, it’s also an opportunity to build chemistry.
We’ll have you covered with all OTAs updates here at A to Z Sports Dallas.