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.
3. Jalen Tolbert
Position: Wide receiver.
Draft class: Third round, 2022.
2023 season: Most improved player in the offseason. Totaled 22 catches for 268 yards and two touchdowns.
Outlook: It would break the rules for this exercise, but this spotlight easily could be on three young wide receivers: “The Jalens.” Jalen Cropper, who spent 2023 on the practice squad as an undrafted rookie, has a strong feel for the slot and is someone to watch this summer. Jalen Brooks, a 2023 seventh-round pick, is champing at the bit for a larger opportunity. But of the three, Tolbert stands to be the greatest beneficiary of Michael Gallup’s release.
The steady, diligent worker enters Year 3 coming off a confidence-rebuilding season and projects to see increased high-leverage opportunities. Just one of the 18 passes he caught from Dak Prescott in 2023 was on third or fourth down. “He’s ready to go,” wide receiver Brandin Cooks said in May. “Whatever the expectation is for him out there, I’m telling you, he’s going to crush it. He’s ready. I look forward to him being able to get that opportunity.”
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
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