Training camp for the Dallas Cowboys is the ultimate proving ground, where roster spots are won and lost under the intense summer sun of Oxnard. While stars like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb have their roles secured, and stars like Micah Parson, well, don’t, several key positions are entirely open for competition. These battles are not only crucial for the team’s success in the upcoming season, but they are also a goldmine of information for savvy fantasy football managers. The eventual winners of these competitions will likely begin the season with modest salaries on fantasy platforms.
For users of fantasy sports apps, identifying these high-value players early is key. For example, a savvy manager might use a PrizePicks promo code to get a deposit match, giving them extra flexibility to take a chance on a newly named starter whose projected performance far exceeds their initial cost.
The Wide-Open Running Back Competition
For the first time in recent memory, the Dallas Cowboys enter camp without a clearly defined starting running back. The departure of previous mainstays has left the depth chart wide open, creating the most high-profile battle of the preseason. The frontrunners are veteran additions Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, both of whom have had success as starters elsewhere.
Williams brings a powerful, bruising style, while Sanders offers more versatility as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. They will be pushed by younger players, such as last year’s draft pick Deuce Vaughn and rookies Phil Mafah and Jaydon Blue. The coaching staff will be looking for a player who can not only handle a significant workload but also excel in pass protection, a critical and often overlooked aspect of the position. This is a true meritocracy where the best performer in August will earn the lead role.
Finding the Third Wide Receiver
With CeeDee Lamb established as an elite number one option and the recent acquisition of George Pickens providing a formidable deep threat, the primary wide receiver roles are set. However, the crucial third receiver spot, a key position in modern NFL offenses, is up for grabs. This role requires a player who can work effectively from the slot and be a reliable option on third downs.
The leading candidates for this job are Jalen Tolbert and veteran free agent signing Parris Campbell. Tolbert has shown flashes of his potential over the past couple of seasons and has a good understanding of the offense. Campbell, conversely, brings years of experience and a distinct skill set to the table. The player who demonstrates the most consistent hands and ability to create separation will have the inside track to securing a significant number of targets.
Solidifying the Linebacker Corps
The Cowboys’ defense relies on speed and athleticism at the linebacker position, and this year’s camp will be about finding the right combination of players. With DeMarvion Overshown expected to be eased back from injury, there are snaps and a starting role to be won alongside established players like Damone Clark and newly acquired veteran Kenneth Murray Jr.
Here are the key contenders for significant playing time:
- Marist Liufau: A promising young player from last year’s draft, looking to take on a bigger role.
- Jack Sanborn: A veteran familiar with the defensive coordinator’s system from their time in Chicago.
- Shemar James: An athletic rookie known for his intensity and special-teams ability.
The battle will come down to which player can prove most reliable in both run support and pass coverage. The Cowboys need a linebacker who can stay on the field for all three downs, and training camp will determine who is best suited for that demanding job.
These position battles will be a central storyline throughout the Dallas Cowboys‘ training camp. The outcomes will not only shape the team’s depth chart for Week 1 but will also have a direct impact on their overall success in the 2025 season. The competition at running back, wide receiver, and linebacker will force players to be at their absolute best, which should ultimately make the final 53-man roster stronger and more prepared for the rigors of a full NFL schedule.
Mai Image: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
