If the Dallas Cowboys are going to take the elusive next step and become a true Super Bowl contender, they’re going to need contributions from their 2024 rookie class.
Dallas brought in eight first-year players via the draft in April and currently have another dozen in the fold as undrafted free agents. Thus far, head coach Mike McCarthy told reporters he likes what he’s seen from the newbies.
“You’re looking for that first impression and they’ve definitely established that,” McCarthy said at minicamp Tuesday, via On3. “They’re in here on the weekends, doing the extra work. No one’s faded away. That’s what you’re looking for. I feel really good about the learning and the ability to communicate. They’ve been engaged very well and done a really good job. We’ll challenge them this week. We haven’t had a class at this point that’s better than this class, that’s for sure.”
First and foremost, first-round rookie Tyler Guyton is likely to take over for Tyron Smith at left tackle. Third-round center Cooper Beebe is also competing for a starting role.
On defense, second-round defensive end Marshawn Kneeland probably won’t be counted on to start, but will be expected to carve out a role in his first campaign. Linebacker Marist Liufau (fourth round) and cornerback Caelen Carson (fifth round) could also see time and should at least contribute on special teams.
You won’t be able to accurately assess the Cowboys’ draft haul until the games actually start, but ESPN’s Mel Kiper gave the group a B- back in April.
Elsewhere, Bleacher Report and Pro Football Focus agreed with the B- assessment, while USA TODAY judged harshly, giving out a D grade.
CBS Sports, meanwhile, went with a C+, while NFL.com rated the Cowboys’ draft an A.
Dallas is coming off a third-straight 12-5 season under McCarthy, but went one-and-done in the postseason.