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[Dallas Cowboys]

Predicting the Dallas Cowboys 2025 regular season schedule

Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

We are doing our best to predict the 2025 Dallas Cowboys schedule.

With the 2025 NFL Draft in the rearview mirror, there is one major football event left before the mini-break before training camp: the release of the regular-season schedule. Today, we take a shot at predicting what the Dallas Cowboys schedule could look like.

Week 1: Dallas Cowboys AT Washington Commanders (Sunday Night Football)​

The Cowboys open their season on the road for the fourth time in the last five years. Dallas travels to Washington to face the Commanders, who figure to be one of the better teams in the entire league.

Week 2: Arizona Cardinals VS Dallas Cowboys​

Dallas kicks off their home schedule with a matchup against Kyler Murray and the Arizona Cardinals.

Week 3: Dallas Cowboys AT New York Jets​

Dallas hits the road again as they play their first of two games at MetLife Stadium, facing off against the New York Jets.

Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images

Week 4: New York Giants VS Dallas Cowboys​

The New York theme sticks around for another week as Dallas hosts the New York Giants.

Week 5: Dallas Cowboys AT Las Vegas Raiders (Monday Night Football)​

The Cowboys play their second primetime game of the season in Week 5 as they take on the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football.

Week 6: Dallas Cowboys AT Carolina Panthers​

On a short week, Dallas faces another test on the road, traveling to Carolina to take on the Panthers.

Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images

Week 7: Minnesota Vikings VS Dallas Cowboys ​

The Cowboys return home to face one of the more underrated teams in the league, the Minnesota Vikings.

Week 8: Dallas Cowboys AT Denver Broncos​

One of Dallas’ toughest tests on the schedule comes in Week Eight as the Cowboys travel to Mile High to take on the Broncos.

Week 9: BYE Week​

It's not as late of a bye week as the Cowboys would like, but it's a nice break before some big pre-Thanksgiving games.

Week 10: Kansas City Chiefs VS Dallas Cowboys​

The most anticipated game of Dallas’ regular season comes in Week 10, as the Cowboys face the juggernaut Kansas City Chiefs.

Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images

Week 11: Philadelphia Eagles VS Dallas Cowboys (Sunday Night Football)​

One of the most competitive rivalries in football is renewed as Dallas hosts the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles on Sunday Night Football.

Week 12: Dallas Cowboys AT New York Giants​

Dallas hits the road for the first time since Week 8 as they take on the New York Giants.

Week 13: Los Angeles Chargers VS Dallas Cowboys (Thanksgiving)​

Like they did in 2017, the Cowboys host the Los Angeles Chargers on Thanksgiving Day.

Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

Week 14: Green Bay Packers VS Dallas Cowboys (Thursday Night Football)​

Dallas plays on back-to-back Thursdays as they host the Green Bay Packers in a game that could have plenty of playoff implications.

Week 15: Dallas Cowboys AT Detroit Lions (Sunday Night Football)​

The road does not get any easier for the Cowboys as they continue their late-season NFC North theme, facing the talented Detroit Lions.

Week 16: Washington Commanders VS Dallas Cowboys​

15 weeks between matchups, the Cowboys host the Commanders in their final home game of the regular season.

Photo by Matthew Pearce/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Week 17: Dallas Cowboys AT Chicago Bears​

Dallas draws the unpopular task of playing in Chicago in late December as they face off against the up-and-coming Chicago Bears.

Week 18: Dallas Cowboys AT Philadelphia Eagles ​

The Cowboys wrap up their season in Philadelphia, taking on the division rival Eagles.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...diction-primetime-games-thanksgiving-nfc-east

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Dallas Cowboys rookie draft class jersey numbers announced

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys have announced jersey numbers for their rookie draft class.

This time last week the Dallas Cowboys were in the middle of assembling their 2025 rookie draft class, and when they were all said and done, they received a ton of approval ratings. Soon enough there will be some legitimate football (so to speak) to sink our teeth into when it comes to the nine players who Dallas selected, but until then we are left to daydream as to what they are going to look like with stars on their helmets.

But, Cowboys rookies do not wear stars on their helmets. It is part of the process of becoming a Cowboys player, having to earn it and all of that jazz. Something each player is issued though, obviously, is a jersey number. This is always a fun thing to see as some numbers just make sense for some players where others don’t.

On Friday the mothership announced jersey numbers for their rookie draft class:

• Tyler Booker....................... 52
• Donovan Ezeiruaku............ 41
• Shavon Revel...................... 27
• Jaydon Blue........................ 34
• Shemar James.................... 50
• Ajani Cornelius................... 69
• Jay Toia............................... 93
• Phil Mafah............................ 37
• Tommy Akingbesote............ 72

We had known from the jump that Tyler Booker was going to wear 52 and on Thursday evening Shemar James shared a photo on his Instagram story noting that he had been assigned 50. As for the rest, it is worth noting that options are fairly limited.

Consider that the Cowboys roster is currently at 91 players (they are allowed an extra thanks to an international exemption) so you don’t necessarily have a lot to choose from at this point in time. Something like Jaydon Blue in 34 or Donovan Ezeiruaku in 41 may seem awkward or strange, but it is worth noting that these can and likely will change once roster cuts happen further down the road.

Which number feels best to you?

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...bers-announced-tyler-booker-donovan-ezeiruaku

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Dallas Cowboys 2025 UDFA scouting report: DB Alijah Clark

Photo by Todd F. Michalek/Syracuse Athletics/University Images via Getty Images

Here is our report on defensive back Alijah Clark

We begin looking into this year's undrafted free agent signings made by the Dallas Cowboys and give you our scouting report on each player. Today we are looking at defensive back Alijah Clark from Syracuse.

Alijah Clark ​

DB
Syracuse Orange
Senior
4-star recruit
6’1”
188 lbs

Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

History​

Alijah Clark, or also known by his nickname “Cinco” (a nickname given his mother when he started playing football at age five), was born on July 11, 2003, in Camden, New Jersey, Clark. He was a standout student-athlete at Camden High School, earning a four-star recruit status from 247Sports. He played both wide receiver and defensive back in high school, showcasing versatility with 21 receptions for 357 yards and four touchdowns on offense, and 22 tackles on defense during an abbreviated 2020 season.

Clark’s collegiate journey began at Rutgers in 2021 where he appeared in seven games, recording six tackles, one tackle for loss, and one interception. He made his collegiate debut against Temple and notched his first interception against Michigan State.

The following year saw Clark transfer to Syracuse where he started 11 of 12 games at safety. He tallied 56 tackles, three tackles for loss, and two pass breakups. Notably, he was not responsible for a single passing touchdown over 576 defensive snaps, contributing to a defense that ranked 14th nationally in passing defense.

In 2023, Clark started 12 of 13 games, recording 66 tackles, five tackles for loss, three pass breakups, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble. His two fumble recoveries tied for third-most in the ACC that season. He had standout performances against Army (eight tackles) and Clemson (six tackles, two pass breakups).

In his final collegiate season, Clark appeared in 12 games, accumulating 61 tackles, three tackles for loss, one interception, and four pass breakups. He earned Defensive MVP in the Holiday Bowl after recording six tackles and an interception against Washington State.

2024 Statistics​

591 Defensive Snaps
326 Coverage Snaps
61 Total Tackles
3 TFL
4 Pass Breakups
1 INT
92.3 Passer Rating Allowed
68% Completion Rate Allowed
1 Penalty

NFL Combine/Pro Day​

10-Yard Split- 1.53s (78%)
40-Yard Dash- 4.50s (73%)
Vert- 33” (19%)
Broad- 122” (58%)

Awards​

N/A

Scorecard:​

Speed- 75
Acceleration- 76
Agility- 72
Strength- 66
Tackling- 64
Run Defense- 75
Zone Coverage- 73
Man Coverage- 67
Press- 66
Discipline- 91

THE GOOD​

• Has shown tremendous versatility having lined up as a split safety, in the box, and in the slot.
• He has the range to play deep and the toughness to fit the run as a box defender.
• In run defense he consistently takes good angles and doesn’t shy away from contact.
• Shows good route recognition and awareness, especially in zone coverage.
• Rarely caught out of position.
• Effective wrapping up, especially in one-on-one situations.
• Has very good work ethic, maturity, and resilience off the field. Vocal leader in the secondary.

THE BAD​

• Doesn’t possess good top-end speed, which could limit his range in single-high or deep coverage responsibilities in the NFL.
• Can struggle to mirror quicker slot receivers.
• His instincts are solid, but closing burst and hands could be more consistent.
• Lacks takeaways during his time in college. Only two interceptions and one forced fumble in 44 college games.
• When beaten initially, he lacks the ability to recover and contest plays downfield.

UDFA HIGHLIGHTS
Alijah Clark
DB
Syracuse

( : ACC Network)#DallasCowboys #Cowboys #NFLDraft2025 #Cuse pic.twitter.com/M5nL4BUXLB

— Mike Poland (@kenfigkowboy) May 1, 2025​

THE FIT​

Alijah Clark is a smart, physical, and sensible safety who excels in zone-heavy schemes that allow him to read the quarterback and support the run. His toughness, tackling, and football IQ make him an interesting prospect who can contribute early on special teams and develop into a rotational player at the next level. He is best suited as a strong safety or in a split-safety look where he can operate downhill and keep the play in front of him.

Clark brings leadership, physicality, and positional versatility to a defense. He’s a strong tackler, dependable in run support, and processes the game at a high level. His zone instincts and ability to quickly diagnose plays make him a valuable asset in coverage and run fits alike. He’s also durable and has shown improvement each season, with a strong close to his career.

To thrive at the next level, Clark will need to refine his man coverage skills and turn more of his disruption into turnovers. While he won’t be asked to play single-high often, improving his range and straight-line speed would boost his ceiling and role flexibility considerably. It’s clear he has it between the ears, but now he needs to work on athleticism aspect to become more well-rounded.

Clark fits Dallas’ need for depth, physicality, and football IQ in the secondary. He’s not the flashiest athlete, but he could quietly become a Matt Eberflus favorite as a steady, assignment-sound safety who doesn’t miss tackles, communicates well, and does the dirty work that lets stars shine. He’d a smart value signing as a UDFA, with a realistic path to contributing on special teams in Year 1.

Clark could serve as a reliable backup early on and push for snaps in sub-packages or even as a rotational starter down the line. Clark’s toughness and consistent tackling would add value, especially on early downs and red-zone defense against the run, something this Cowboys defense has struggled with in the past. Clark could be a decent player initially to help on special teams and look to develop from there.

COMPARISON:​

Vonn Bell, New Orleans Saints

BTB GRADE:​

264th

CONSENSUS RANKING:​

366th
(Consensus ranking based on the average ranking from 90 major scoring services, including BTB)

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...a-scouting-report-defensive-back-alijah-clark

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Shavon Revel Jr. named 26th-best draft pick of 2025

Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

The Cowboys got one of the biggest draft steals in Shavon Revel Jr.

The Dallas Cowboys came into the 2025 NFL Draft in a not so ideal situation when it came to their cornerback room. With Trevon Diggs recovering from a knee issue, the loss of Jourdan Lewis, Josh Butler rehabbing a torn ACL, and Caelen Carson coming off a tough rookie campaign, Dallas had to add another cornerback to help out DaRon Bland, who is looking to return to form himself.

They chose to stick to their board and let the draft fall to them, and it paid off tremendously. With the 76th pick pick in the third round, the Cowboys took Shavon Revel Jr. out of East Carolina. He's coming off an injury-plagued year, but Revel was still one of the highest ranked players in the draft.

Matt Miller of ESPN released his rankings of the top 100 picks on Wednesday, and Revel landed at No. 26, just one spot ahead of Tyler Booker, who Dallas took with the 12th overall pick in the first round.

My final overall ranking: No. 57

Revel’s elite size and playmaking ability had him looking like a first-rounder before he tore an ACL in September. The Cowboys didn’t need a corner in this draft, which shows how much they valued Revel. They got him nearly 20 picks lower than I had him ranked. This could be one of the biggest steals in this draft if he gets healthy and develops into a future starter.

Revel could have been the top cornerback (except sometime CB Travis Hunter) taken off the board in the draft if it weren't for his injury. It is largely because he was such a good performer in 2023 for East Carolina. He put up 54 tackles, four tackles for loss, one interception, 13 pass breakups, one sack, and a fumble recovery (scored a touchdown). Despite only playing in three games last season, Revel logged two interceptions, and he ran one back for a score.

Revel is expected to be ready by training camp. This will give him the perfect opportunity to get out on the field and test his limitations while he gets back to playing shape. The Cowboys will need Revel to get up to speed and fast because even if Diggs comes back healthy and preforms well, he's expected to begin training camp on the PUP list, and there's concern that he won't be ready for Week 1. Dallas will be in a situation where they'll need Revel to be ready to start immediately if that's the case. So, his rehab and how he responds to it is very important.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...ed-26th-best-pick-2025-third-round-cornerback

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Cowboys rookie Shemar James has ‘Captain America’ qualities

Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Shemar James is a very exciting name for the future of the Cowboys linebacker group.

Day three of the NFL draft was a tough start for the Dallas Cowboys. One of their reported favorites at running back, Bhayshul Tuten, went off the board to the Jacksonville Jaguars with the second pick in the fourth round.

From there on, it was a run at the running back position with six getting selected across 36 picks. Entering the fifth round, just one runner was drafted in front of Dallas before they were on the clock. If they wanted to get their guy, now was the time. The Cowboys were ecstatic to get “their boy blue,” Texas running back Jaydon Blue at pick 149.

Then the Cowboys did something puzzling. They traded up from their second selection in the fifth round to pick three spots after drafting Blue. Would it finally be a wide receiver? Maybe a young safety to develop behind the current starters? No. Dallas traded up to pick Florida linebacker Shemar James.

Dallas has Marist Liufau, and acquired Jack Sanborn and Kenneth Murray from free agency, but linebacker was still a need, but a trade-up need? The Cowboys could use the depth, but it felt like James was a name that came out of left field.

Then you listen to the team’s secret audio, and it starts to make sense. Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus seems to like James and what he can bring to that room.

“I’m so excited to have you, man,” Eberflus said. “You got so much upside...just come in here and kick some ass I’m just telling you...I’ve enjoyed watching your tape, and you had a great Senior Bowl. I really liked that too. Man, just so excited to develop you and make you into a kick ass backer.”

Eberflus has a history of developing late-round linebackers during his many years coaching with the Cowboys. Anthony Hitchens became a great player for Dallas, and while with the Indianapolis Colts, Eberflus transformed Darius Leonard (a third-round pick) into a Pro Bowl player.

The love for James does not end with Eberflus and the Cowboys. Bob McGinn of the Go Long Substack did a profile series on every position before the draft, interviewing numerous scouts and getting their opinions on players. One scout gave James a rave review.

Said one scout: “Captain America. Phenomenal human being. I can see him being a CEO of a company one day. Just a solid, consistent player. Not the best athlete in the world but good enough. He’ll be gone by the end of the third or the fourth. Someone’s going to fall in love with him based on the interview process.”

James is still growing as a player on the field, so he was selected in the fifth round. However, with intangibles like these, there’s no reason to doubt that they played a factor in the Cowboys' decision to trade up and select him, especially with head coach Brian Schottenheimer emphasizing culture and leadership with almost every draft pick.

The rookies’ jersey numbers were released ahead of Cowboys rookie minicamp this weekend. James was given No. 50, made famous in Dallas by linebacker Sean Lee. Maybe it’s a coincidence, or perhaps the number was given to James on purpose. Either way, if there are even just a few “Captain America-like” qualities to the rookie linebacker that resemble Lee, then the mystery draft pick will turn into a home run in no time.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...james-linebacker-matt-eberflus-draft-trade-up

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Donovan Ezeiruaku speaks on doing 'whatever' to elevate Cowboys defense

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Donovan Ezeiruaku has a chance to make an immediate impact as a rookie.

Many wanted the Dallas Cowboys to focus on getting weapons on the offensive side of the ball early in the NFL Draft. However, the team stuck to their draft board looking for the best players, and in doing so drafted defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku in the second round.

When DeMarcus Lawrence headed out the door, the Cowboys had an opening for another player who can consistently pressure the quarterback. Ezeiruaku is the second consecutive edge rusher that Dallas has taken in the second round after taking Marshawn Kneeland in 2024.

Despite being a rookie, Ezeiruaku is expected to have a significant role coming out the gate for the Cowboys, and he’s willing to do anything to get their defense back to the level needed to contend.

I’m coming here to work and do whatever the coaches ask me to do. If they ask me to stand up or play over the top of the guard on some type of passing situation, or stand up and be on the edge, I’ll do that to the best of my ability.

Ezeiruaku can do quite a bit on the football field. Per Pro Football Focus, Ezeiruaku logged 1,969 snaps on the defensive line in college. What makes Ezeiruaku unique is that he can rush the passer from either side and do so effectively. Plus, as he mentioned, he'll rush the passer in the middle as well, which, when successful, is a quarterback’s worst nightmare.

The skill set of Ezeiruaku works perfectly with a guy like All-Pro Micah Parsons. He's a Swiss army knife that can be moved around, much like Parsons. On key passing downs, defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus has many ways to attack. Dallas could even kick a guy like Kneeland inside like they used to do with Lawrence occasionally and let Parsons and Ezeiruaku come off the edges.

Ezeiruaku is more of a stand-up type of edge. In certain passing situations, the Cowboys could even let Parsons put his hand in the dirt and let Ezeiruaku stand up and rush off the same side while guys like Dante Fowler Jr. or Sam Williams come off the other edge. This is what a player with such versatility like Ezeiruaku allows a defensive coordinator to do.

For an edge, Ezeiruaku is undersized at 6'2 and 245 pounds. He'll need to pack on some pounds and get stronger to improve his ability to stop the run, although he's not necessarily bad at it. Once he does that and mirrors it with his pass rush skills, Ezeiruaku is going to be a special player.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...t-pass-rusher-marshawn-kneeland-micah-parsons

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

The Cowboys still need to decide on a starting nickel cornerback

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Who do you think will be the Cowboys’ nickel corner this season?

The Cowboys have done a decent job of throwing bodies at the cornerback position after Jourdan Lewis’ departure. After losing Lewis to the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency, the Cowboys answered by trading for Bills cornerback Kaiir Elam, re-signing Israel Mukuamu, and drafting Shavon Revel in the third round of the 2025 NFL draft.

The issue? None of those players are primary slot cornerbacks. Elam and Revel played primarily on the outside in Buffalo and at East Carolina. Both guys are taller, longer, and fit the boundary cornerback profile more. Mukuamu has seen some time in the slot for the Cowboys over the course of his four-year career in Dallas, but his lack of experience (three starts) and ideal fit to be a full-time nickel cornerback leaves the Cowboys with an interesting hole to fill.

Over the last five years, the slot corner position has gone from being just another corner to one of the most valuable positions in the National Football League. With so many of the best wide receivers in football spending a lot of time in the slot, having a quality slot defender or outside cornerback that can comfortably follow wideouts into the slot has become extremely valuable.

With Trevon Diggs unlikely to be ready for the start of the season, and Shavon Revel still rehabbing from a torn ACL suffered at the beginning of the 2024 season, the Cowboys will need to figure some things out in their secondary during training camp. There are still a few quality slot cornerbacks on the free agent market like Mike Hilton and Asante Samuel Jr. that the Cowboys could look to sign to fill their slot need, or hold them over until Diggs and Revel get back up to full strength.

For now, it looks like the Cowboys will give many of their corners a shot in training camp to win the starting nickel role. Or they could move DaRon Bland back inside if they think they have a pair to play on the outside. But do not be surprised if the Cowboys look to bring in a veteran to solidly the position before training camp with the current injuries and holes the Cowboys are currently dealing with at the cornerback position.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...defense-free-agents-mike-hilton-asante-samuel

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Despite concerns, George Pickens is a perfect fit for Brian Schottenheimer’s Cowboys

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Here is how George Pickens can help the Cowboys

After months of anticipation and speculation, and a complete lack of moves during the 2025 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys have finally added a viable starter at wide receiver opposite CeeDee Lamb.

They traded for Steelers receiver George Pickens on Wednesday, and the move already has fans divided. Our own RJ Ochoa broke down the pros and cons of the trade, and it’s easy to understand why one of the most controversial wide receivers in the NFL has provoked such a reaction.

No one is questioning the talent. Let’s start there.

Listed at 6’3”, Pickens is one of the tallest receivers in the league, and he plays like it. Nobody had more receptions on passes thrown 20+ yards downfield than Pickens last year, and the Steelers understood his value as a deep threat. Only nine other receivers ran a higher rate of go routes and deep fades.

That’s not all, though. Check out Pickens’ success rate by routes from his rookie year in 2022 to his second season.

George Pickens Success Rate by Route 2022, courtesy of Reception Perception

George Pickens Success Rate by Route 2023, courtesy of Reception Perception

Pickens remained elite on deep routes, but expanded his route tree efficiency. Per ESPN Analytics, Pickens posted a 48 open score as a rookie - open score measures a receiver’s ability to create separation on routes - but upped that figure to 70 in 2023 and 68 in 2024.

He’s also proven to be one of the best run-blocking wide receivers out there. Among full-time starters at the position, Pickens’ run blocking grade of 63.6 from Pro Football Focus ranked sixth, ahead of bigger names like A.J. Brown and Amon-Ra St. Brown.

That hints at the biggest concern for Pickens, though. He’s a great run blocker because he loves the physicality of the sport, but sometimes he loves it too much.

Pickens has garnered a reputation as a bit of a headcase, a ticking time bomb waiting to go off, with multiple explosions each season. He’s been rather public in the past about not getting enough targets, often stoked rumors that he wanted out of Pittsburgh, and got in numerous fights and squabbles with opponents; while Pickens has never been suspended, the NFL has handed down 10 fines over his three seasons totaling $123,989. Cowboys fans will surely remember one of those moments.

I had completely forgotten about this , and then Jourdan Lewis calling George Pickens “weak” after the game

Lewis, the former Cowboys corner,
said this morning about the trade: “Confirmation, God wanted me in Jacksonville.” #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/ioOCLnuVaj

— Kevin Gray Jr. (@KevinGraySports) May 7, 2025​

So how can Brian Schottenheimer, a first-time head coach, figure out Pickens’ strong personality when Mike Tomlin, of all people, couldn’t?

Well, as Schottenheimer himself said in his introductory press conference, he’s great with people. Look to his time in Seattle, in fact. Schottenheimer has already taken steps to implement similar things from Pete Carroll’s Seahawks dynasty, one of which includes being unafraid to bring in talented players with strong (or, as some may characterize it, volatile) personalities.

One such player was DK Metcalf, whose player profile is in many ways very similar to that of Pickens. Metcalf had a huge frame and great long speed with perhaps too much passion for getting physical with defenders. In fact, Metcalf - who, coincidentally, was traded to Pittsburgh earlier this offseason - has 14 fines as a pro totaling $207,043.

Despite that, Carroll wanted to take a chance on Metcalf. And the first offensive coordinator to work with Metcalf in the NFL was none other than Schottenheimer.

Metcalf exploded onto the scene as a rookie, finishing with 900 yards and seven touchdowns. He leveled up the next year, hitting 1,303 yards and being named a second team All Pro. Schottenheimer was let go after that season, and while Metcalf has remained productive, that 2020 season is still the best of his career.

Also of note: only one of Metcalf’s 14 career fines happened during the two years Schottenheimer coached him. The lone fine was for excessive celebration, too, hardly on the same level as the many taunting and brawl fines Metcalf has received since then.

Obviously Metcalf and Pickens are different personalities, and the best way to manage one player is not the same as the best way to manage another. Schottenheimer certainly understands this, too. But it does speak to his ability to work with a player that many consider very similar to Pickens.

Schottenheimer can even have that conversation with Pickens. He can point to Metcalf as a success story, and tell Pickens that if he buys into what the Cowboys are building, he can have the same kind of impact in Dallas. That, combined with Pickens playing on the final year of his deal, creates a perfect scenario in which the newest Cowboy can get it together and put forth the best year of his career (so far).

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...s-personality-brian-schottenheimer-dk-metcalf

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

NFC East news: The NFL draft is heading to D.C.

Tork Mason / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Here is the news from around the NFC East this week.

Washington, D.C. to host 2027 NFL Draft - Commanders.com​

Washington’s resurgence is bringing a new stadium and the draft to the area.

NEW YORK — May 5, 2025 — The NFL today announced that the 2027 NFL Draft presented by Bud Light will take place in Washington, D.C, uniting fans from around the world to celebrate one of the most- anticipated events in sports.

Hosted in partnership with Washington Commanders and the local organizing committee, Events DC, the 2027 NFL Draft will take place across the District’s most iconic landmarks, including the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue, placing the capital at the center of America’s most celebrated sport.

“The NFL Draft has become a marquee event, uniting fans across the country and around the world,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “We are excited to bring the 2027 Draft to Washington, D.C., a city rich in history and national pride. With the support of President Trump, the Commanders, Events DC, and Mayor Bowser we’re looking forward to delivering an unforgettable experience as we celebrate the next generation of NFL stars.”

Over the course of the three-day event, D.C. will host a slate of Draft activities, including a variety of community events, the Draft Concert Series and the NFL Draft Experience – the ultimate free fan festival. that invites fans to participate in immersive exhibits, challenge their skills in interactive games, take photos with the Vince Lombardi Trophy; enjoy the youth-focused Play 60 Zone; shop exclusive NFL merchandise; and score autographs from current players and Legends.

“The NFL Draft is one of the biggest moments in sports—and we’re incredibly proud to help bring it to Washington, D.C.,” said Josh Harris, Commanders Managing Partner. “It will bring hundreds of thousands of visitors, millions of viewers around the world, and generate jobs, tax revenue, and meaningful economic impact across the city. The Draft is a powerful reminder of how sports bring people together – and we’re honored to play a role in that. Since we started this journey less than two years ago, we’ve seen an NFC Championship Game, an agreement to return to RFK, and now the NFL draft in Washington. Thank you to President Trump for your leadership, to Mayor Bowser for your partnership, and to Commissioner Roger Goodell for your support in bringing the Draft back to the nation’s capital. We look forward to welcoming the football world to Washington in 2027. Today is a great day for the DMV, and I can’t wait to see what the future brings.”

Eagles rookie eager to follow in his father’s massive footsteps - Dave Zangaro, NBC Sports Philadelphia​

Football is family for Philadelphia’s sixth-round pick.

Eagles rookie Myles Hinton didn’t watch his father play football but is eager to follow in his massive footsteps.

Back in his prime, Chris Hinton probably could have wrestled an alligator and lived to tell about it.

Of course, he didn’t. But, in true dad fashion, that’s what he told his son.

Eagles sixth-round pick Myles Hinton chuckled at rookie camp last week when explaining that his father, the former Pro Bowl offensive lineman, told him when he was a kid that the scar on his leg came from wrestling a gator. It was actually a surgery scar from a football injury.

“I don’t know how old I was when I realized it was a fake story,” Myles Hinton said.

Hinton also didn’t really realize how good his dad was at football until he was around 13. The rest of the football world, meanwhile, was very aware.

While many remember Chris Hinton as the player who once got traded for John Elway, Hinton had a near-Hall of Fame career of his own. Dad was the No. 4 overall pick in the 1983 draft out of Northwestern. He played 177 games over 13 seasons in the NFL, was a seven-time Pro Bowler and has been a Pro Football Hall of Fame semifinalist.

But Chris Hinton’s last NFL season came in 1995 and his second son Myles wasn’t born until 2002.

“He didn’t talk about it much,” Myles said last week. “But once I started really getting into football and playing O-line for real, like really understanding what was going on, is when I kind of understood that he was that guy. So I do some research on him, watch YouTube videos and whatnot. But yeah, dude, it’s crazy.”

When Myles got old enough, he and his dad sat down to watch some old film. Chris Hinton’s first college game at Northwestern was actually against Michigan. So Myles got to watch his dad — then a tight end — play at the Big House, which became home for Myles in 2023 after transferring from Stanford.

How the Josh Allen Process Led the Giants to Jaxson Dart - Albert Breer, Sports Illustrated​

Jaxson Dart is a name to watch for the Giants.

But he was careful about visiting one school and, interestingly enough, it was Ole Miss.

Schoen was sensitive with that one because his daughter is a student there, and he didn’t want his staff to think he was using the quarterback project for personal reasons.

“In hindsight, I’m like, I could have definitely spent more time with my daughter this fall,” he joked. But he did eventually get to Oxford for the Egg Bowl over Thanksgiving weekend. And when he got there, as with all the quarterbacks, Schoen trained his eyes on Dart’s every move—particularly what he was doing when he wasn’t on the field.

On the Vaught–Hemingway Stadium sideline, Dart gave Schoen everything he needed to see.

“What really stands out about Jaxson is his passion for the game, leadership amongst his teammates and how he can cross sides of the ball,” Schoen says. “Like, he’s not just sitting over with the offense the entire time. You see him interacting with the defense as well. That’s a big part of the live exposure—you have a bad throw, or you have a three-and-out, you come over to the sideline, who are you interacting with? Which coaches? Are you talking to your receivers? Are you talking to your line? Are you by yourself? Are you not?

“You get back up, go to the sideline and watch the defense out there. Those are all things that we’re watching and evaluating.”

The interesting thing, too, was how intentional that leadership was from Dart.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...nders-eagles-wide-reciever-giants-jaxson-dart

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

Cowboys addition of George Pickens gives needed clarity to WR room

Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

The Cowboys offense got better with the trade for George Pickens.

Dallas Cowboys owner and GM Jerry Jones teased that the team could be active on the trade market again just before the draft, and coming away from the draft with nine picks but not a single wide receiver went a long way in narrowing down what position the team may be targeting in a trade. The Cowboys made a high-profile trade for a wide receiver on Wednesday morning, acquiring George Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round draft pick from the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for next year’s third-round pick and a ‘27 fifth-round pick.

The Cowboys making this trade is just the latest example of them sticking to their word when it comes to this offseason’s plans to improve under first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer, but in more ways than one. By adding Pickens in the aftermath of an impressive ‘best player available’ focused draft, the upside of the trade is in line with the positives of their top draft choices as well.

For example, when grading the Tyler Booker pick at 12th overall, it was praised not only for the blue-chip, high-character player that Booker is at an immediate position of need for the Cowboys, but also how his addition at right guard reshuffles the depth chart throughout the offensive line to create a much more favorable outlook. Players that project better as quality depth options like T.J. Bass or Robert Jones can comfortably fill this role instead of being over-slotted as potential starters.

Second-round pick Donovan Ezeruika also steps into a situation at defensive end where he can be a piece of a larger puzzle, joining Micah Parsons, second-year player Marshawn Kneeland, Dante Fowler, Sam Williams, and Payton Turner to potentially give DC Matt Eberflus a real strength in numbers approach to pass rush. This general philosophy is sound roster building for the Cowboys, just one offseason removed from doing literally none of these things. Give credit where it is due.

The Cowboys achieved this same thing, and hopefully much more, in adding a player that projects as their newest complementary receiver to top dog CeeDee Lamb by acquiring the 24-year old Pickens. The 24-year old receiver, in the final year of his rookie contract, will have to earn this role in Schottenheimer and OC Klayton Adams’ offense. If he does so, it will go a long way in allowing Jalen Tolbert to remain a serviceable third receiver, Jonathan Mingo and Jalen Brooks to be rotational players as possession receivers, KaVontae Turpin to keep an element of surprise to his usage on offense as a speedster, and last year’s draft pick Ryan Flournoy to continue developing without high expectations.

In the case a trade like this did not materialize, the Cowboys wasted no time following the draft reminding the fanbase that they traded a fourth-round pick last year for Jonathan Mingo, who still carries the expectation to contribute because of this despite not getting established in either Carolina or Dallas yet. To pull off yet another WR trade in back-to-back years and put Mingo in a much more realistic spot a bit further down the depth chart is a breath of fresh air compared to how the Cowboys operated prior to this. BTB’s Brian Martin delved deeper into how trading for Pickens could benefit Mingo, a player the Cowboys are still clearly not ready to give up on:

How the acquisition of Pickens potentially benefits Mingo is relatively simple. It gives him the time he hasn’t had since entering the league to continue to work on his craft and acclimate himself with the Cowboys offense. In essence, it takes the pressure off of him having to step into a role he may or may not be ready for.

At still just 24 years old, the 6’2”, 220-pound WR can now focus on doing all the little things right and continue to improve as a player instead of being thrown into the fire like he was in Carolina. Only time will tell if this will end up helping him turn his career around, but with Pickens now in the picture, this is his best chance to continue his growth as a player.

The Cowboys trading for Pickens isn’t just about trading for a player that immediately has to fix the entire situation at receiver himself. He will certainly be called on to make the big plays he’s proven capable of, in ways no other current Cowboys receiver besides Lamb has proven, but he can also be key to unlocking the full potential of the receiving depth chart from top to bottom.

Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Yet another pro of the Cowboys adding Pickens, and the way they’ve stayed the course of building the team how Schottenheimer and his new staff desire, is how his play style will also pair with Lamb specifically. Schottenheimer is looking to attack defenses with similar looking formations and alignments that still give Dak Prescott and his receivers an array of options. Lamb and Pickens have complementary skillsets that match Prescott’s strengths, and is a major lift to the passing offense the Cowboys didn’t have coming out of the draft.

a perfect match

George Pickens x CeeDee Lamb pic.twitter.com/YvLjtQ1WOm

— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) May 7, 2025​

These heat maps show where both Pickens and Lamb were targeted the most from 2023 to last season. Lamb has been targeted more heavily in the seams, over the middle, and behind the line of scrimmage. The first part of this is explained by how dominant Lamb is out of the slot, something that he can continue focusing on as Pickens gels into his role an an outside target in the Cowboys offense.

As for some of the other ways the Cowboys force fed the ball to Lamb during the times he was their only playmaking threat, the team can now distribute some of those throws to Pickens, who excels as a more downfield target, but can also use his great body control and excellent ability to make contested catches along the sideline. Keeping Pickens involved in the game script in this way will be important to manage the temperament that’s earned him a reputation of a hot-and-cold, headcase type of receiver.

Pickens can channel the edge he plays with in the run game, where he excels as a downfield blocker on the boundary. Much has already been said about how the Cowboys are looking to get their offensive line out in space blocking for a more dynamic run game again, and while getting receivers in this mix is a far less talked about element to the game, it is yet another skill that makes Pickens a fit in Dallas.

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The Cowboys have added Pickens to Lamb as two sure-fire playmakers on offense, something they needed. They have a crowded and rebuilt backfield with Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, Jaydon Blue, Deuce Vaughn, and Phil Mafa. A fully loaded tight end room with Jake Ferguson, Luke Schoonmaker, Brevyn-Spann Ford, John Stephens Jr., Princeton Fant, and intriguing UDFAs Rivaldo Fairweather and Tyler Neville. And now with George Pickens being added via trade, they have a true pecking order at wide receiver trickling down from Lamb to Pickens to Tolbert, Brooks, Mingo, Flournoy, Turpin and Paris Campbell.

This is a team with a relatively unknown first-year head coach, looking to make a name for himself as a culture-setter in Dallas, as well as offensive play-caller. Enough pieces should now be in place to get a fair assessment of Schottenheimer’s play-calling ability, as well as where the cream will rise to the top across the skill positions to give the Cowboys their new direction of how to build around the highest paid QB in the game. Adding a receiver like Pickens was a great step in the right direction, and just the latest move to praise the Cowboys front office for, still with the potential of more before or during training camp in Oxnard.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...vers-ceedee-lamb-jalen-tolbert-kavonte-turpin

 

[Dallas Cowboys]

5 reasons why the trade for George Pickens should work out nicely for the Cowboys

Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images

Here are five reasons why the George Pickens trade makes sense for the Cowboys.

The Dallas Cowboys made the splashiest move they’ve made in years on Wednesday when they traded for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens. It was the icing on the cake for a team that has been very active in addressing weaknesses, as it was the last thing remaining on their offseason checklist. And it was a big one.

The Cowboys’ offense has suffered immensely when they’ve tried to rely on players like Allen Hurns, Noah Brown, or Jalen Tolbert to fill bigger shoes than they’re capable of, and each time, the front office has responded by making a trade for a new wide receiver. They’ve invested high draft capital for a young Amari Cooper, and much lower draft capital for the veteran Brandin Cooks. This time, they’ve split the difference and used a third-round pick to acquire Pickens.

Pickens is a good player, but he only has one year left on his rookie deal, and he comes with baggage, which is why the Cowboys got him for what they did. It has some people questioning just how excited they should be about this trade. There are many things to consider, but here are five things that should make you feel pretty good about this trade.

1. He’s got something to prove​

If there is a coach who can get the most out of a player, it’s the Pittsburgh Steelers' Mike Tomlin. No one should expect first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer to have the magic touch that finally gets through to him. Pickens is what he is, and that’s a 1,000-yard receiver even in “headache” mode. He’s also in the last year of his rookie deal, so he’s the guy who has the most to gain by keeping his act together. The Cowboys should see the best version of him, and the likelihood of things going south seems low.

2. He’s a perfect fit for Dak​

For the last few years, there’s been a lot of complaining about Cowboys’ receivers getting separation. Pickens isn’t going to change that. While he has some quickness out of his breaks, he’s not a skilled route-runner who constantly creates space. But that’s okay because he doesn’t need a lot of room to do what he does best, and that’s bringing down balls in traffic.

Pickens is one of the best contested pass-catchers in the league. He has elite body control and concentration. His catch radius is off the charts. Since the departure of Amari Cooper, Dak Prescott has been routinely asked to make tight window throws, and he’s one of the best in the game at throwing a catchable ball; however, what’s happened after that has not always worked out. With Pickens as a new target, Dak will benefit from a receiver who has made a career out of hauling in contested passes.

In 2023, Dak Prescott led the NFL with an on-target pass rate of 82.6%.
George Pickens has one of the best catch radii in the league.
Throw it near him and he'll find a way to snag it.
This is a match made in heaven. pic.twitter.com/CQj308vCH0

— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) May 7, 2025​

3. If he’s a one-year rental, that’s okay​

The Cowboys giving up a third-round draft pick is a steep price. If you think it was hard to watch them sit on their hands from picks 100 to 140 (fourth-round), it will be more painful when they’re helpless at picks 65 to 100. And for those hoping the team will re-sign Pickens, let’s remember who we’re talking about.

The Cowboys have been aggressive this offseason, but that doesn’t mean they will keep throwing money at people. If Pickens balls out and is a top commodity on the open market next offseason, that’s fine. With what he’ll command in free agency, it should return a nice third-round compensatory pick.

4. The WR3 position just got more fun​

The Cowboys started the week with one of the worst WR2s in the league and instantly propelled themselves into the conversation of having one of the top WR duos in the league. CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens are going to be fabulous together. But the fun doesn’t stop there.

The team now has a huge battle for the WR3/WR4 spots with candidates Jalen Tolbert, Jonathan Mingo, KaVontae Turpin, Parris Campbell, Jalen Brooks, and Ryan Flournoy. Before, when one of these guys was expected to be the WR2, this situation was frightening, but now, only having to be the fourth or fifth receiving option (behind Jake Ferguson as well), suddenly, these choices look much more appealing. It’s no longer unreasonable to expect someone (one is all it takes) to step in and contribute in that role.

5. Drafting talent over need offers rewards​

If Pickens is only with the team for a year, the Cowboys can still solidify their wide receiver position by using one of two premium draft resources on a wide receiver next year. And while it may seem costly to burn two premium picks at the position, the fact that the Cowboys were patient this year and collected talent in other areas will afford them that luxury.

They won’t need to address the offensive line; they’re stacked with young edge rushing talent, and by the time 2026 rolls around, they should once again have two great cornerbacks, with one of them being a healthy Shavon Revel Jr. That’s the benefit of taking the top talent over addressing positions of need. What’s not a big need right now could have been later, and the Cowboys have themselves covered in a lot of areas now.

Source: https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...-contract-compensatory-draft-pick-ceedee-lamb