Dallas Cowboys: Stock Up, Stock Down After Preseason Game No.1
The Dallas Cowboys exhibition game left a sour taste in fans mouths. After the preseason game, that taste didn't get any sweeter. A 17-7 loss that feels worse than the score indicates. Realistically, it doesn't really matter if the Cowboys win or lose these preseason games. They are for rookies, newly arrived vets and players […]
The Dallas Cowboys exhibition game left a sour taste in fans mouths. After the preseason game, that taste didn't get any sweeter.
A 17-7 loss that feels worse than the score indicates. Realistically, it doesn't really matter if the Cowboys win or lose these preseason games. They are for rookies, newly arrived vets and players looking to make the final roster. Practice squad at worse.
While many players the Cowboys and fans alike expected to step up looked average or worse, there were a few positive signs.
This roster might not be set in stone, but a number of bubble candidates definitely helped their case to make it past Tuesday's roster cuts. Others have only added a target on their backs.
For the time being, we're only going to focus on who improved or hurt their chances. There's still two preseason games left, and don't be surprised if these players continue to trend as such as the final roster is formed.
Stock Up
- QB Ben DiNucci – If going into the game I would have told you DiNucci would outplay Cooper Rush, you'd stop reading. He did just that. Completing 28 more yards in less snaps at QB.
- TE Jake Ferguson – Ferguson had more catches (3) than any other Dallas Cowboys player, displaying plenty of elusiveness with his plays after the catch.
- TE Peyton Hendershot – Hendershot made the most of his time. Catching two passes and showcasing himself as a blocker as well.
- RB Malik Davis – Davis lead the team in rushing yards (51), yards per rush (6.4) and combined scrimmage yards (67). There's a reason they gave him a hefty guarantee despite being undrafted.
- OL Isaac Alarcón – Not all the offensive linemen played poor. Despite playing primarily guard this off-season, he excelled at tackle allowing 0 pressures, according to PFF.
- DT Quinton Bohanna – One of the bubble players, the nose tackle constantly applying pressure to the backfield. Collapsing in on a number of run plays, with some noticeable burst.
- DT John Ridgeway – Speaking of nose tackles, Ridgeway is in the league primarily for his run-stuffing skills. Not only did he stuff the run, but often shed blockers in his way.
- LB Storey Jackson – Jackson came out of Liberty as a multi-skilled LB who could play coverage and read the run. His run defense being on full display.
- LB Devin Harper – One of the criticisms of Harper was he had a problem finishing plays. Having great athletic ability, he tracked down the ball carrier three times and almost got his hands on the ball as well.
- DB Markquese Bell – Already a favorite to make the roster, Bell was constantly around the ball. Whether it was deep, in the box or rushing off the edge.
- DB DaRon Bland – Undoubtedly the best defensive back on the Cowboys last night. Bland was a strong tackler and concise coverage defender. Is he the Dallas Cowboys fourth best corner?
- DB Kyron Brown – Brown had a really good game, breaking up two passes in coverage before leaving the game with an injury. Don't be surprised if he's an 'IR stash'.
Stock Down
- QB Cooper Rush – Getting outperformed but DiNucci is bad enough. Even worse is seeing Rush force throws to the outside and stare down receivers. He's lucky he only threw one interception.
- OL Josh Ball – Seeing his first playing time with the Cowboys, Ball did nothing to alleviate the concern at backup OT. Allowing a number of pressures to the QB.
- OL Aviante Collins – It wasn't all Ball. Collins did just as poor, leaving right off of where he was in the practice exhibition.
- OL Amon Simon – Simon didn't fair any better. Playing just as poor, but with a much shorter leash than the previous two players. A likely candidate for the first round of cuts.
- DB Kelvin Joseph – His off-season saga has been all ugly, showing inconsistency in practices. He gave up plenty of passes, including a touchdown pass, making Anthony Brown and Jourdan Lewis feel very comfortable.
- DB Nahshon Wright – Wright faired even worse. Allowing multiple catches, a touchdown and was often singled out throughout the night, getting picked on by the Denver offense.
- DB Isaac Taylor-Stuart – A promising start to camp, Taylor-Stuart allowed receivers to get open and almost a near touchdown that was overthrown. It will be interesting to see if he gets a second chance come first cuts.
Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
