Left guard Tyler Smith, tight end Jake Ferguson and cornerback DaRon Bland were among the Cowboys players who achieved a breakout performance in 2023. Who is next? We’re counting down five potential candidates.
4. Juanyeh Thomas
Position: Safety
Draft class: Undrafted free agent, 2022
2023 season: Blocked a Week 1 field goal during the first quarter of his first career game, which a teammate returned for a touchdown. Logged 315 snaps on special teams and 190 on defense. Totaled 22 tackles and four passes defensed.
Outlook: The arrow continues to point up here. During his rookie season, Thomas developed on the Cowboys’ practice squad, a potential diamond they hoped another NFL club wouldn’t sign after he flashed brilliance on special teams in the preseason. There was no stashing Thomas last year; he made the roster and, in a nod to his offseason development and increased playbook comfort, started a Week 1 win over the New York Giants.
Breakout candidates
No. 5: Princeton Fant, tight end
No. 4: Juanyeh Thomas, safety
No. 3: Jalen Tolbert, wide receiver
No. 2: DeMarvion Overshown, linebacker
No. 1: John Stephens, tight end
New defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has a fresh set of eyes to evaluate the rising talent. That could lead to increased opportunities, presuming Thomas builds upon the impression made the past two years. Coach Mike McCarthy remarked in the spring about the “light” Thomas exudes. Teammates gravitate toward him.
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