3 biggest winners from the Cowboys' minicamp
The Dallas Cowboys' offseason is basically over at this point. On Thursday, head coach Mike McCarthy revealed veterans were sent home and that the team will close out Phase III of the offseason by doing off-the-field work with the rookies. That leaves July 24th as the next big date for the Cowboys as they'll be […]
The Dallas Cowboys' offseason is basically over at this point. On Thursday, head coach Mike McCarthy revealed veterans were sent home and that the team will close out Phase III of the offseason by doing off-the-field work with the rookies.
That leaves July 24th as the next big date for the Cowboys as they'll be reporting to training camp then.
Before closing the book on training camp, it's time for us to recap minicamp and OTAs by looking at the three biggest winners from the entire process.
3 biggest winners from the Cowboys’ minicamp
1. WR Brandin Cooks
There’s no sure thing as a safe bet in the NFL. So although Brandin Cooks carries a big name, it’s still reassuring to hear every rave review on the new Cowboy’s speed. According to coaches, players, and insiders, Cooks is wowing everyone with how fast he is.
That's extremely encouraging for a Cowboys team that has been lacking that on offense. Cooks will be a big-play threat that can take the top off of defense while freeing up CeeDee Lamb in the slot.
"It’s beautiful," Dak Prescott told reporters about his new buddy. "Yeah, real speed."
And even better, Cooks is reportedly being a great teammate by talking and helping younger Cowboys receivers like Jalen Tolbert and Simi Fehoko.
2. OL Matt Waletzko
Last year's fifth-round draft pick didn't get to play as a rookie. That might be about to change. Mike McCarthy called his offseason "impressive" as he's alternated between playing at left guard and right tackle.
Waletzko might be one strong training camp away from being a Week 1 starter assuming Terence Steele isn't ready to go when the season starts. He could make a big impact in Year 2 of his career.
3. RB/FB Hunter Luepke
Everyone overlooked the FCS star during the NFL Draft. But since the moment the Cowboys signed him as a UDFA after that, he’s become a player to watch. He fits what Mike McCarthy would want in an H-back player as he can block and catch at a high level.
But don't overlook Luepke's prospects as a running back, as well. Cowboys Executive VP Stephen Jones mentioned Luepke before anyone else when asked about adding a bigger back.
Perhaps the Cowboys have plans to involve the rookie right away in short-yardage situations.
Featured image via Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
