Cowboys: 3 players who clinched a roster spot so far this preseason

2. LB Jabril Cox

It was a forgettable year when it came to the Cowboys’ defense. The club allowed the fifth-most points in the league (473). Since-replaced coordinator Mike Nolan’s unit permitted 54 offensive touchdowns – 34 through the air. And it could have been much worse if the team didn’t come up with 23 takeaways.

This offseason, the organization replaced Nolan with Dan Quinn, who spent the previous five-plus seasons as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. He brought along physical defender Keanu Neal, who makes the transition from safety to linebacker.

Dallas also used eight of its 11 selections in the 2021 draft on defense. Fourth-round selection Jabril Cox has stood out to date. The former LSU standout has racked up 11 tackles (9 solo), two for losses. He also has a pair of stops on special teams. The Cowboys did give up the second-most rushing yards in the league this past season.

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1. RB Rico Dowdle

In more than just recent seasons, this is a franchise that has relied on its ground attack and a very talented offensive line. But be in it injuries in the backfield and upfront, as well as a lack of commitment to the running game, the team finished a disappointing 17th in the NFL in rushing yards per game in 2020.

Five-year pro Ezekiel Elliott is looking to bounce back from a mediocre year. And quality back Tony Pollard remains with the club and provides quality depth and has run for exactly 435 yards in each of his first two seasons. But the team could still use some depth in this department.

Running back Rico Dowdle managed just seven carries for 24 yards a year ago with the team. Yes, it’s the preseason but it’s interesting to note that he received eight attempts apiece vs. the Steelers and Cardinals, respectively. He’s gotten 10 touches in each game this summer and along with Elliott and Pollard and Dallas could certainly use more experience in this area.