3 Dallas Cowboys players with nothing to lose who could rise to prominent roles with strong offseasons
These 3 Dallas Cowboys haven’t been making a lot of headlines this offseason, but they are names to watch. With seemingly nothing to lose, they are candidates to rise into significant roles.
As the Dallas Cowboys resume OTAs on Thursday, I thought it was the perfect moment to look at three players who have nothing to lose but that have realistic paths toward prominent roles. Even if it doesn’t seem like it at first.
They’re underdogs, don’t get me wrong. But at least one name on the least has starting upside. Let’s dive in.
1. RB Malik Davis
It’s easy to forget about Davis’ presence on the roster, but it shouldn’t be that way. After all, he emerged as RB2 behind Javonte Williams midseason for a simple reason. He was running very efficiently. As he ran for 250 yards, he averaged 4.8 yards per attempt.
Davis’ ceiling may be limited, but if the Cowboys younger running backs fail to step up this offseason, he could very well be the most reliable backup for Williams. Chances are the Cowboys want Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah to take the job. But Davis ended the year as RB2 for a reason.
2. EDGE Sam Williams
This is shaping up to be Williams’ last chance to make a name for himself in Dallas. The good news? He may be holding pocket aces.
New Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker is installing a defense that features outside linebackers as edge rushers. Such a role is expected to be a fit for Williams, who played a similar role at Ole Miss.
It’s an uphill battle for Williams, though. After a strong rookie season in which he posted big numbers in limited playing time, Williams has failed to break out. Currently, he’s projected to sit behind Donovan Ezeiruaku, Rashan Gary, and Malachi Lawrence on the depth chart.
3. LB Shemar James
I don’t think we’re being fair to James, the Cowboys leading tackler from 2025. While everyone is focused on newcomers at linebacker like Dee Winters and third-round rookie Jaishawn Barham, James has been forgotten by many.
Many even criticize his play from last year. But here’s the thing: James was never supposed to start six games as a rookie. He was supposed to sit and develop. When he was at his worst, it was because the game appeared to be too fast for him. But the athleticism that made him a Day 3 pick was right there. That should change in Year 2.
Winters and DeMarvion Overshown have little experience at middle linebacker. Don’t be surprised if James throws his hat in the ring for a starting job at MIKE.