David Butler II-Imagn Images How the newly-added quarterback is just what the offense needed. When the Dallas Cowboys lost Cooper Rush to the Baltimore Ravens in free agency, it caught a few by surprise. Since joining the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2017, Rush has spent most of his career with the Cowboys with some memorable moments, like his win against the Minnesota Vikings in primetime on Halloween night in 2021. Rush’s departure left a hole for the Cowboys to fill, and with starting quarterback Dak Prescott finishing the 2024 season on injured reserve, the risk of Prescott getting hurt again lingers. While some veteran options were still available on the market, like Teddy Bridgewater and Joe Flacco, Dallas made the wise decision to search for a solution behind Prescott with enticing upside. Dallas made a great addition after they traded a 2025 fifth-round pick to the New England Patriots in exchange for quarterback Joe Milton and a 2025 seventh-round pick. New England reportedly had better offers for Milton, but the Patriots sent him to his preferred destination. Milton chose Dallas where he isn’t an immediate challenger to surpass Dak Prescott, but Milton’s family has an affinity for the Cowboys, and Milton fulfills a “dream” to live in Texas. The trade gives Dallas control of a talented prospect for the next three years. Think of the Trey Lance addition but with a cheaper contract and with a more immediate need. Here’s why the Cowboys got better at backup quarterback and why its a great move by the front office. In hindsight, it may be hard to come to terms with this, but Cooper Rush was not as good as some would like to note. Those numbers don’t tell the whole story despite the win/loss column looking favorably for Cooper Rush. When Rush saw extended time as the starter in 2022 and 2024, he threw 15 touchdown passes versus eight interceptions. In 2022, his QBR that season was 52.1; last year, it careened to an abysmal 41.0. Last season, he tied a career-low with only six yards per attempt. When you re-examine his win/loss record, some of it was a byproduct of exceptional efforts by the Cowboys’ defense. Ultimately, what Rush was doing was passable but not groundbreaking. As for Milton, he’s not a proven product, yet his talent is undeniable. Milton’s arm strength is among the best in the NFL despite being in only his second NFL season. He makes it look easy as he casually launches a ball from one end of the field to the other. At the combine, Milton’s throw was clocked the fastest of his peers, coming in at 62MPH. Dallas’ offense had felt capped by the sum of its parts without Prescott last year. That starts with the quarterback. Rush doesn’t have the type of arm strength to drive the ball downfield and fit the ball in tight spaces with extra zip like Milton does. When you watch the Cowboys with Rush, they are forced to be more methodical partly because of Rush’s limitations and those that extend beyond arm talent. Milton also has some mobility. This viral clip says as much. Joe Milton with one of the best “plays that didn’t count” of the season pic.twitter.com/NuwGLcLfwD — NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) January 5, 2025 Milton ran a 4.65 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, and with his build of 6’5”, 235 lbs., he’s got the frame, and physical traits teams covet in not only backups but starting-caliber quarterbacks also. Why New England would part with Milton for a day three pick, including giving up another one to boot, is anyone’s guess. It’s too soon to tell, but could Dallas develop special packages for Milton in certain instances? Maybe. However, we do know that if Prescott misses games again this season, Milton will give the Cowboys an extra dimension with a team that would likely commit to the run sans Prescott. The addition of Milton makes the Cowboys an interesting watch this preseason as Milton will get plenty of chances to showcase his talents in Dallas. Give a round of applause to the front office that landed themselves a very valuable insurance policy.

Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images Here is our scouting report on Nic Scourton from Texas A&M We continue our 2025 NFL Draft preview of draft prospects that could interest the Dallas Cowboys. Today we are looking at defensive end Nic Scourton from Texas A&M. Nic Scourton DETexas A&M AggiesJunior4-star recruit 6’3”257 lbs Photo by Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images History Nic Scourton, born on August 25, 2004, in Bryan, Texas, and attended Bryan High School. Over his final two seasons, he amassed 136 tackles and eight sacks. His performance earned him a spot in the All-American Bowl, showcasing the nation’s top high school talent. He was a consensus four-star recruit and committed to Purdue University in 2022. In his freshman year, Scourton played in 14 games, recording 22 tackles, including two tackles for loss, and two sacks. His immediate contribution highlighted his readiness for top college competition. Scourton’s sophomore year marked a breakout season. He led the Big Ten Conference with 10 sacks and tallied 50 total tackles, including 15 tackles for loss. His performance earned him Second Team All-Big Ten honors. Seeking to play closer to home, Scourton transferred to Texas A&M University for his junior year. He started all 12 games, leading the Aggies with 14 tackles for loss and five sacks. He also recorded 37 total tackles, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble. His performance earned him First-Team All-SEC honors. 2024 Statistics 558 Defensive Snaps37 Total Tackles14 Tackles For Loss6 Missed Tackles22 Defensive Stops36 Total Pressures 5 Sacks2 Pass Breakups 1 Forced Fumble1 Penalty NFL Combine/Pro Day N/A Awards First-team All-SEC (2024)Second-team All-Big Ten (2023) Scorecard Overall- 88.9Speed- 82Acceleration- 78Agility- 80Strength- 91Tackling- 84Pass Rush- 85Run Defense- 84Discipline- 96 THE GOOD Scourton’s greatest talent is his diverse array of pass-rush moves. Has an effective chop, rip, and spin move, allowing him to consistently disrupt opposing offenses. He demonstrates solid physicality at the point of attack. Effective at utilizing his long arms and has powerful hands to gain leverage against blockers. Exhibits good block recognition and positioning, enabling him to effectively engage and shed blockers in run defense. Is relentless in pursuit of the ball carrier. Scourton maintains a high motor throughout plays, contributing to his effectiveness in both primary and secondary efforts. TAPE TIME DE Nic Scourton Texas A&M ✅ THE GOOD✅#scouting #NFLDraft #GigEm pic.twitter.com/UIUuGYJnAj — Mike Poland (@kenfigkowboy) April 1, 2025 THE BAD Refining his hand techniques could enhance his ability to disengage from blockers more efficiently. Improving his processing speed in identifying and reacting to run plays would bolster his defensive impact. Enhancing his initial burst and acceleration can make his pass-rushing more formidable. Scourton tends to depend heavily on his spin move during pass-rushing attempts. Scourton’s needs to work on his counter moves. His strategy can be all over the place at times. Plays with high pad level, which affects his ability to maintain leverage when trying to set the edge. TAPE TIME DE Nic Scourton Texas A&M ❌THE BAD❌#scouting #NFLDraft #GigEm pic.twitter.com/r9TXoaLhAc — Mike Poland (@kenfigkowboy) April 1, 2025 THE FIT Scourton is projected as a late first/early second-round pick in this year’s NFL Draft. His versatility allows him to fit as a defensive end in a 4-3 scheme or as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 formation. He’s a powerful edge rusher with a relentless motor and an impressive ability to disrupt plays in both the pass and run game. He showcases a strong combination of hand strength, physicality, and a diverse pass-rush arsenal, making him a consistent backfield presence. With continued development, particularly in technique and play recognition, Scourton has the potential to become a significant contributor to an NFL defense. He sometimes plays with a high pad level, which can impact his leverage and ability to set the edge against the run. His hand technique, while effective, could be more refined to disengage from blockers quicker. Additionally, his burst off the line and acceleration could use improvement to enhance his pass-rushing effectiveness against top-tier offensive tackles. Scourton could be a solid fit for the Dallas Cowboys, particularly as a rotational edge rusher and potential long-term replacement for DeMarcus Lawrence. Dallas’ defensive requirements would allow Scourton to line up at defensive end, where his natural power and hand strength could be utilized effectively. His ability to generate pressure and disrupt plays in the backfield aligns with the Cowboys’ aggressive pass-rushing philosophy. However, he would need to refine his run defense consistency to fit the team’s biggest weakness. With coaching and development, Scourton could thrive as a high-motor pass rusher alongside Micah Parsons, giving Dallas another explosive weapon on defense. COMPARISON: Cameron Jordan, New Orleans Saints BTB GRADE: 40th CONSENSUS RANKING: 37th(Consensus ranking based on the average ranking from 90 major scoring services, including BTB)

Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images Shavon Revel is a name to keep an eye on. The start of the 2025 NFL Draft is at the end of April. The Dallas Cowboys and all 31 other franchises are hosting players for official in-person visits, and that will giveg a much clearer picture of what prospects teams are seriously interested in. While the Cowboys have plenty of positions of need on their roster, the popular belief surrounding the team is that their first-round selection at pick 12 will be spent on either a cornerback, defensive end, or wide receiver. Dallas picked a good year to need the latter two positions, as this year’s draft class has multiple first-round worthy edge defenders and pass-catchers. The cornerback position is different. While there does seem to be some decent overall depth in this year’s class, there aren’t any sure thing cornerbacks who are a lock to go in the top half of the first round, unless you project the ultra-talented Travis Hunter as a defensive back. If you group Hunter with the wide receivers, Michigan cornerback Will Johnson seems to be the consensus top prospect at the position this year. Johnson had a stellar college career, but various outlets offer widely different projections for when he will be selected. Some believe Johnson will be a top-10 pick, while others think he could fall into the mid-twenties. It’s clear the Cowboys have a significant need at the cornerback position. Losing Jourdan Lewis in free agency greatly affected the overall strength of the position group, along with the uncertainty of when Trevon Diggs will be healthy. The Cowboys desperately need to add a cornerback in the draft to play alongside DaRon Bland and Caelen Carson. Johnson could certainly be that guy, and the Cowboys have already been linked to the cornerback quite a bit. But if Johnson is selected by a team ahead of Dallas in the draft order, is there another cornerback prospect who could be an under-the-radar option in the first round? There just might be, and it’s ECU prospect Shavon Revel Jr. Revel may be one of the biggest boom-or-bust prospects in the entire draft class. The 22-year-old played three seasons at East Carolina University, in which 2023 was his most productive. During that season, Revel was named Second-Team All-American Athletic Conference, leading his team with 12 PBUs. Checkout ECU’s Shavon Revel’s closing speed here. Dude has another competitive gear when the balls in the air, which is one of coolest traits a corner can have. Toledo’s Quinyon Mitchell came to @seniorbowl and made himself top CB drafted last April and we think Revel is… https://t.co/Lr3ZGUK7aA pic.twitter.com/czEKF74JNM — Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_Sooners) September 18, 2024 The cornerback started off the 2024 season red-hot, recording two interceptions in ECU’s first three games, but the 22-year-old unfortunately suffered a torn ACL during a practice in late September, forcing him to miss the rest of the year. 51-yard pick-6 INT for #EastCarolina CB Shavon Revel. Don’t sleep on this guy! No. 12 overall on my top-50. Could be ECU’s first top-20 draft pick in school history. pic.twitter.com/XvAdXphDaX — Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) September 14, 2024 There are no questions about Revel’s physical traits. He stands 6’2” with 32 ⅝” arms and has the speed and explosiveness of an ideal NFL cornerback. His size and length would play perfectly in Matt Eberflus’ defense, and Revel measures up as the exact kind of corner Dallas’ new defensive coordinator is looking for physically. The biggest question surrounding Revel is whether his play in an overall weaker college conference will translate to the NFL against much stiffer competition. While this is a valid concern, Revel’s unique physical traits should allow him to exceed when facing stricter competition this fall. Besides being a perfect fit in Dallas’ defense, Revel is connected to the Cowboys in another way. Dr. Dan Cooper, the Cowboys team physician, performed the 22-year-old’s ACL surgery last September. Dallas famously drafted linebacker Jaylon Smith in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft after Cooper also performed his surgery. While you can debate whether the Smith selection was a good one or not, there’s no denying that Dallas is much more comfortable selecting players with injury concerns who have had surgery conducted by their in-house physicians. The Cowboys are set to host Revel as one of their 30 visits, showing they have at least some interest in the cornerback prospect. The Dallas Cowboys will host East Carolina DB Shavon Revel Jr for a 30 visit next week, source said. — Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) March 28, 2025 While some see Revel as a potential option for the Cowboys with their second-round selection at pick 44, there is a scenario where he could be a sleeper option in the first round. If Will Johnson is off the board and the Cowboys feel the best player at a position of need available is indeed Revel, the talented cornerback could be a target in a potential trade-back option if the Cowboys are looking to acquire a third- or fourth-round pick and move back a few spots. Is this scenario likely? Probably not, but at least some thought should be put into Shavon Revel Jr. being the name called by Roger Goodell with Dallas’ first-round selection come April 24th.

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Banning the tush push could change a few things. This past week, ESPN’s Adam Schefter provided updates from the offseason meetings in which the NFL’s competition committee enacted a few rule changes. For example, the NFL ruled in favor to change the overtime format to be played similarly to that of the postseason, where both teams will be given a possession in overtime. One rule was a major point of contention and was tabled for the interim, the Tush Push popularized by the Philadelphia Eagles. Though effective, the play has come under fire for many reasons, leading to a growing sense that play needs to be outlawed and no longer allowed in the NFL. This article underlines the call to action and why banning the play is under consideration. What makes the play so effective, specifically for the Eagles, is the leverage their offensive line has as they barrel into the opposing defensive line, and the strength of Jalen Hurts, guided by Saquon Barkley, pushing him forward. However, if the proposal initiated by the Green Bay Packers to abolish the play is approved sometime in the future, that won’t be anything to worry about anymore. Some contend that disallowing the Tush Push sends the wrong message as it is the defense’s job to stop it. Whereas others are in favor of the play being banned because it often appears to bend the rules. In many instances, both teams intrude on the neutral zone before the snap. Plus, it raises the concern of an unfair advantage by allowing an offensive player to push a ball carrier for further forward progress, while defensive players aren’t allowed to do something similar by pushing defensive players through the line of scrimmage. When asked about the proposal, Cowboys COO Stephen Jones said this about the now infamous formation: ”We’re looking for consistency as a committee, and we don’t allow pushing,” Said Jones. “We don’t allow the linebackers to push the defensive linemen on extra points and we’re just trying to be consistent.” If the play is eliminated when league meetings reconvene, the Cowboys become big benefactors as a result. The Eagles have been very successful since introducing the play in 2022. In 2023, the Eagles had an 88.1% conversion rate, and we’re still good in 2024, though slightly less successful with an 82.4% conversion rate. The Eagles attempted the play 45 times in 2024, resulting in 35 first downs and 13 touchdowns, including the playoffs. Last season, the Eagles scored two touchdowns from inside the two-yard line against Dallas while using the Tush Push. The Cowboys also have had a problem stopping the run, especially in the middle of their defense. Taking away this near-unstoppable facet from the Eagles’ offense makes defending the Eagles on third down less nerve-racking because they can’t depend on the Tush Push on fourth down. This past week, Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports provided more context as to why the play could be banned and where talks are regarding the rule change at this time. Talks on the tush-push will continue today. If it is voted on today and receives enough votes to be banned, one source said the main reason will be the potential for injury, particularly to the spine. The thinking is to prevent a serious injury before it happens rather than… https://t.co/49MCWCEliV — Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 1, 2025 For the better part of the last 15 years, player safety has been a mainstay in the ongoing dialogue to improve the game. Competition aside, keeping the players safe is the driving force behind most enacted rule changes. Some detractors would argue that the Tush Push is inherently unsafe, with Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott being one of the louder voices on the subject. “My biggest concern is the health and safety of the players, first and foremost. It’s added force and then the posture of the players being asked to execute that type of play. That’s where my concern comes in,” said McDermott, who is part of the NFL’s competition committee which reviews rule proposals and will present supporting statistics to the voters. “That’s not a healthy posture, to me. Then, when you add force to that posture, that’s concerning for me as to the health and safety of the players. … To me, (the Green Bay proposal) takes away the force. Traditional quarterback sneaks have been around for a long time. That’s the context of it that’s important. Then the pushing adds the force piece, and it exponentially raises my concern.” That should mean something from a coach who uses the same play to his advantage with his quarterback Josh Allen. There’s a lot of intrigue in what unfolds from these discussions for several reasons, with Dallas having something to gain.

Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images The latest news from around the division. Report: New York Giants’ Joe Schoen, Brian Daboll are ‘working as separate entities’ – Dan Benton, USA Today The head coach and general manager each seem to be doing their own thing. Following an ugly end to the 2024 season, the New York Giants were expected to fire general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll. If not Schoen, then most certainly Daboll. Instead, Giants co-owner John Mara opted to keep the regime intact while simultaneously expressing his displeasure. “Now that our season is over, we felt it necessary to make this statement. Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll will continue in their respective roles with the organization,” Mara wrote in a statement. “As disappointing as the results of the season have been, Steve (Tisch) and I remain confident in the process that Joe and Brian have implemented and their vision for our team.” Leading up to that announcement, reports suggested Schoen and Daboll would be evaluated separately. They weren’t but are now apparently operating separately. Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports that more than at any other point in their tenure, Schoen and Daboll are “working as separate entities.” Mara publicly blamed the previous regime’s failures on a lack of communication and collaboration between GM Dave Gettleman and head coach Joe Judge. Schoen and Daboll projected a united front and worked as a complementary pairing early on, having arrived together from Buffalo in the first place. Gradually, however, that dynamic has shifted to the point that Schoen and Daboll now more than ever are working as separate entities, sources say. This offseason, there have been some notable changes. Many will point to Daboll’s lack of presence at certain Pro Days, but that isn’t necessarily outside of his norm. However, he and Schoen holding separate press conferences when they have traditionally held joint press conferences, is. Moreover, Leonard reports that there “was some hope” from members of the front office and personnel department that Daboll would get the boot. Whether Schoen and Daboll are working in tandem or not, and whether their union is forced or not, they both share a common goal: Winning. Without that, they’ll both find themselves on the street at this time next year. Marshon Lattimore takes drastic action to rekindle old magic with Commanders – Ryan McCafferty, RiggosRag.com Washington’s cornerback may want to return to his college form. Marshon Lattimore was acquired by the Washington Commanders ahead of the 2024 trade deadline with high hopes that he could be the type of lockdown cornerback to turn around the team’s struggling defensive backfield. Suffice it to say, the early results were mixed. Lattimore only played in five games for the Commanders — two in the regular season and three in the playoffs — as a lingering hamstring injury kept him otherwise sidelined. The Pro Bowler was never 100 percent healthy when he did suit up, which brought plenty of complications. A full offseason to rest up and fully acclimate himself to Washington should help him get back to his high-caliber performance levels. Perhaps symbolically, he’ll have a new jersey number too. Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore is changing his number for the 2025 season The No. 2 became available due to wide receiver Dyami Brown’s departure from the Commanders to the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency. Lattimore has taken it. The longtime New Orleans Saints star will join Mike Sainristil (No. 0) in giving the Commanders a pair of starting cornerbacks both wearing single-digit numbers. It may take some time to get used to seeing Lattimore in any number that isn’t No. 23. He wore it throughout his entire eight-year tenure with the Saints as well as during his five games with Washington last season. But as he seeks a fresh start for his first full Commanders campaign, it feels like the right time to make the change. This also happens to be his old college number from his Ohio State days. Perhaps this shift can rekindle his magic providing Lattimore gets a better run of luck on the health front. Commanders fans will be hoping that’s the case. Dan Campbell on tush push: Eagles found something, it’s up to everybody else to stop it – Michael David Smith, NBC Sports Some NFC coaches think the Tush Push should stay. Lions coach Dan Campbell says the Eagles’ tush push needs to be stopped by opposing defenses, not a change to the NFL rulebook. Campbell was asked at the league meeting if the tush push should remain legal, and he made clear that he doesn’t think it’s fair to pass a rule designed to stop one team from a successful play it has devised. “I am of the school that they found something and it’s up to everybody else to stop it. So I’m a hard yes,” Campbell said. Campbell said his own team has no plans to use the tush push, but that doesn’t mean other teams that can do it effectively shouldn’t be allowed to. “We don’t run that. Jared Goff, it doesn’t mean we’re not going to quarterback sneak, but we don’t do that,” Campbell said. The Eagles do it, and do it well, and Campbell thinks the way to stop them is on the field and not by a vote at an owners’ meeting.

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images Tetairoa McMillan feels like the name most people think the Cowboys will draft in the first round. The Dallas Cowboys will have all eyes on them once the 12th pick comes about in the NFL draft later this month. Dallas has plenty of roster holes, and they need instant impact guys that can contribute immediately since they rely so heavily on building their roster through the draft. There have been a ton of players linked to the Cowboys at various positions, particularly at wide receiver. Matthew Golden out of Texas and Luther Burden out of Missouri have been popular choices. So has Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan, and on Thursday when draft analyst Todd McShay talked about his top 150 big board heading into the draft, he mentioned there’s some buzz around Dallas taking McMillan in the first round. I’m hearing a lot of noise about Tet going 12 to Dallas. McMillan has the ideal size at 6’5″ and 212 pounds. Mix that size with his physicality, route running, and excellent hands, and McMillan is a matching nightmare on the outside. He is a perfect guy to use in the redzone with his physical traits. He’s also extremely athletic, and he showcases that with his ability to make contested catches. McMillan has some versatility to his game as well. During his collegiate career, he registered 347 snaps in the slot, and with his size, he can create favorable matchups being on an island. With All-Pro CeeDee Lamb also being a slot demon, Tetairoa could allow the Cowboys to switch some things up as far as how they attack through the passing game. There’s been some talk about separation issues when it came to McMillan. However, when watching him play against the top cornerback in the draft in 2023, Colorado’s Travis Hunter, he caught three of the five targets and scored a touchdown. It’s also important to note that McMillan showed the ability to separate from Hunter, and he was open on several plays that the quarterback missed on. Tetairoa McMillan Vs. Travis Hunter: (2023) ➖3 Receptions➖15 Yards➖1 TD McMillan had 5 Targets with Hunter covering him and finished the game with 9-107-1 This tape will be studied HEAVILY by NFL scouts when evaluating both of these top tier prospects WR1 Vs. CB1 pic.twitter.com/fml9mmohHa — Austin Abbott (@AustinAbbottFF) March 30, 2025 The thing that people should listen to the most is what the Cowboys brass has to say closer to draft time at the end of the month. With that being said, the buzz around McMillan to Dallas shouldn’t be ignored, and he’s certainly a possibility once it’s time for the Cowboys to pick.

Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Through all the Dallas Cowboys have done to address their roster this offseason, questions remain on both the personnel and coaching side when it comes to how much this team has truly improved and is ready to compete in head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s first year. The Cowboys had been in a bit of a lull in adding new players, seemingly content with the state of their roster ahead of the draft, until Thursday when they swapped yet another day three compensatory pick for a player at a position of need. The Cowboys acquired former New England Patriots quarterback Joe Milton, a 2024 sixth-round pick out of Tennessee, for a fifth-round pick. The Cowboys also picked up an additional seventh-round pick in the deal. Dallas getting active in the player acquisition process again here early in April also provides the latest chance to discuss Brian Schottenheimer’s outlook for year one. After an extremely negative initial reaction to the Cowboys going with an internal candidate promoted from an offensive coordinator role after the Cowboys offense struggled so much on offense a year ago, Schottenheimer was able to put together an impressive staff that went a long way in earning some much needed fan trust. After an initial wave of free agent signings and trades though, there hasn’t been much to judge Schottenheimer by, and whether or not he is actually the right coach to lead this team into what will effectively be the start of Dak Prescott’s new contract is still a great uncertainty. The Joe Milton trade doesn’t at all change the fact the Cowboys are built to move forward as Prescott’s team, and will go as far as he can take them with an offense still lacking an obvious solution to the run game. It does change the dynamic of an all-important room inside of The Star though, and one that Schottenheimer should naturally gravitate towards given his background. The Cowboys kept a very tight circle in the QB room under Mike McCarthy, who talked openly and often about his QB development school and how much he enjoyed keeping that as a constant between Prescott, Cooper Rush, and most recently Trey Lance as backups. Schottenheimer was on McCarthy’s staff for three years of his tenure, and made one of the very few internal hires on his first staff as HC for QB coach with Steve Shimko. Shimko comes from a similar rank as Schottenheimer, promoted from offensive assistant to QB coach. Maintaining the sanctity of the quarterbacks room is something Schottenheimer clearly wanted to keep in place, but adding Milton gives the Cowboys something new they have not had in the room in some time. Milton represents the first young, developmental, still potentially on-the-rise QB they’ve had as a backup in some time. Trey Lance was supposed to bring some of these qualities, but the former first-round pick had already played in eight games and shown his clear strengths and weaknesses in all of them before arriving in Dallas. Milton only appeared in one game as a rookie, starting the last game of the regular season for the Patriots against the Bills, and winning 23-16 with 241 yards, a 75.9% completion rate, a passing touchdown, and a rushing touchdown. Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images The dynamic of having a young QB like Milton in the organization now is an underrated move when it comes to evaluating the things many fans are desperate to get a read on Schottenheimer’s ability to coach. Intangibles like leadership, connecting with players, and making young players better. Joe Milton doesn’t need to become anything close to the QB of the future under Schottenheimer for this move to be a success, but seeing just how much the new head coach can get out of him, and what value he will provide in the understanding of a new scheme, is paramount. The way Prescott’s and Milton’s trajectory are lined up right now is also ideal. Milton can get better for the sake of becoming a reliable backup without any expectation to push Prescott as the established high-end starter. This dynamic breeds healthy competition and the type of teaching the Cowboys want between quarterbacks, as opposed to the often dysfunctional dynamic that develops between quarterbacks honestly competing for one starting job. If Milton is going to see the field in any capacity, beyond the preseason where he could play a ton given how much the Cowboys have rested starters in recent seasons, his best traits to develop are his mobility and accuracy downfield. For what we know of how Schottenheimer is approaching his first season as play-caller for Prescott, getting back to what made him successful early in his career is a focus. Mobility and well-timed deep passes were two of the biggest parts of Prescott’s game during this time, and things the Cowboys are desperate to get back to after struggling so much in both areas in 2024. The upside of this move giving the Cowboys continuity in what they are looking for in all of their QBs is well worth swapping late-round picks in the process. The Cowboys have certainly been busy this offseason, but no single move guarantees them much of anything when it comes to rebounding from a 7-10 season and climbing out of third place in the NFC East. Certainly, trading for a backup QB is the absolute farthest from a move that accomplishes this either. When put together as a collective though, the Cowboys are showing a real serious focus towards the football side of their operation led by Schottenheimer, and every move counts in this regard. Dallas is targeting scheme fits their new coaches can quickly get up to speed, addressing needs across the board to give them the best chance at drafting their highest-ranked prospects, and getting on the same page from top to bottom between front office and staff in ways that are all new

Think you can figure out which Cowboys player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game! Hey Cowboys fans! We’re back for another day of the Blogging The Boys in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form. If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article. Previous games Friday, April 4, 2025Thursday, April 3, 2025Wednesday, April 2, 2025 Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games NFL in-5MLB in-5MMA in-5 Blogging The Boys in-5 instructions The goal of the game is to guess the correct Cowboys player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it. After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form. Enjoy!

Photo by Eakin Howard/Getty Images Who are some second and third-round targets you like for the Cowboys? The Dallas Cowboys currently have a total of two draft picks on Day 2 in the 2025 NFL Draft, the 44th overall pick in the second round and the 76th overall pick in the third round. There is a chance they could acquire more draft capital in either the second or third round if they make a trade, however, that’s pure speculation right now. Today, we’re looking at our favorite players who we would like to see the Cowboys target with the 44th and 76th overall picks. We decided to stick with the current roster “needs” after being “selectively-aggressive” by trading for and signing free agents in free agency. Running back Pick 44: Kaleb Johnson, Iowa Pick 76: Cameron Skattebo, Arizona State Johnson may not be a homerun hitter, but his vision, patience and ability to set up his blocks are the best in the draft class. He’s a workhorse RB with the nose for the end zone. With his low center of gravity, contact balance, and hard-nosed running style, Skattebo is extremely difficult to tackle. He is similar in a way to Marion Barber. Wide receiver Pick 44: Jack Bech, TCU Pick 76: Isaiah Bond, Texas From doing the dirty work as a blocker to his receiving skills, Bech reminds a lot of Cooper Kupp. He’s a QB-friendly WR who would pair nicely with CeeDee Lamb. Bond is a little bit of an enigma. He has all of the tools to become one of the best WRs in the 2025 draft class, but so far lacks the consistency. His ceiling is worth betting on though. Offensive line Pick 44: Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona Pick 76: Marcus Mbow, Purdue Savaiinaea has the talent and length to remain at OT, but his best fit at the next level could be kicking inside to G. He can challenge to start at RG in Dallas and provide depth at RT. Mbow is one of the most athletically gifted OL the entire draft class. He has the position flex to potentially start at RT, RG, or C with the Cowboys, which could be invaluable. Defensive tackle Pick 44: Alfred Collins, Texas Pick 76: Jordan Phillips, Maryland Collins is the big-bodied, space-eater the Dallas defense is currently lacking. He’s an ideal 1-technique in Matt Eberflus’ scheme who could challenge to start as a rookie. Phillips is one of the younger DTs and is still a little raw, but with more consistency and more time to develop he has the talent to be one of the best in the draft class. Defensive end Pick 44: Princely Umanmeilen, Mississippi Pick 76: Bradyn Swinson, LSU Umenmeilen still needs to improve as a run defender before he can be considered a full-time starter, but his pass rushing ability could get him on the field early with the Cowboys. Swinson is still flying a little bit under the radar, however, he has the talent to be an impact pass rusher at the next level and could be an early contributor for the Cowboys. Linebacker Pick 44: Carson Schwesinger, UCLA Pick 76: Chris Paul Jr., Mississippi Schwesinger’s sideline-to-sideline speed and ability to quickly read and diagnose plays has him always around the football. He could be an ideal WILL LB in Eberflus’ scheme. He’s a little undersized (6’1″, 235), but Chris Paul is a high-energy MIKE LB who makes plays all over the field and has a nose for the ball in both the running and passing game. Cornerback Pick 44: Trey Amos, Mississippi Pick 76: Jacob Parrish, Kansas State Amos is equally as good as a run defender as he is in pass coverage and fits what Matt Eberflus likes at the CB position. He would challenge to start as a rookie. Parrish has the versatility to play outside or in the slot, but being a little undersized likely be a nickel CB at the next level who would immediately replace Jourdan Lewis in Dallas.

Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images Hopefully Brian Schottenheimer’s staff can help Tyler Guyton take a jump in year two. The Dallas Cowboys first-round pick from last season and a hopeful future star at left tackle, Tyler Guyton, had a rookie campaign with a few bumps and bruises. However, challenges were expected, as he was one of the rawest tackle prospects heading into the draft and was transitioning to left tackle after spending time at Oklahoma as a right tackle. Although there were growing pains with his performance on the field, Guyton was drafted in the first round because he could develop into a great player with his athleticism and traits. When the front office hired Brian Schottenheimer as their next head coach, there was an idea that some continuity from the McCarthy era would hold over, but with the chance to put his own stamp on the offense and the staff. Schottenheimer has created a coaching staff praised for its influence of adding veteran coaches and some of the best young coaches from the collegiate ranks. Two coaches, offensive coordinator Klayton Adams and offensive line coach Conor Riley, will spearhead Schottenheimer’s offensive vision. Guyton has noticed that vision, which has excited him. The left tackle was a recent guest on the KnoItAllz Podcast and talked about the offense the team is building with a “one-two-three punch” at coaching. Interview with Tyler Guyton Dallas Cowboy starting OT. “The energy in the locker room changing and the year ain’t started yet!” pic.twitter.com/woYcOZOY7y — Iamvictorious (@victorious512) March 31, 2025 Guyton also praised Ramon Chinyoung, who was retained as the team’s assistant offensive line coach. Schottenheimer talked about his newly built staff in Indianapolis during the NFL Combine in February and said he found coaches who were all about teaching the fundamentals of the game. “I think we found great teachers. We found guys that were incredible people,” Schottenheimer said. “I have a real big belief in the fundamentals, and so I think if you look at all the coaches that we’ve added, both young, old, the ability to train fundamentals and the developmental process of our players is critical. Schottenheimer also talked about how the players will feel the “passion and energy” from his staff. Guyton already recognizes that, but the buy-in from the players is half the battle. Now, it’s up to the coaches to get the best out of Guyton. Luckily, Adams and Riley are two of the best in developing offensive linemen. Adams’ most recent stop with the Arizona Cardinals saw him build an offensive line that helped pave the way for a rushing offense attack that averaged 144.2 yards per game, seventh best in the NFL. The Cardinals offense averaged 5.3 yards per carry on the season, second only behind the Baltimore Ravens. The second stat is slightly inflated, considering quarterback Kyler Murray is mixed into that equation. On the other hand, Riley comes from the college ranks after spending time with Kansas State as their offensive line coach. He helped build one of the most respected rushing attacks in college football and is familiar with Cooper Beebe, who he developed into a third-round pick for the Cowboys. If Guyton wants to improve, he will have to work on his own time and in the offseason, something Schottenheimer said he has noticed when speaking at the NFL Combine. “You watch Cooper Beebe, Tyler Guyton, those guys, Tyler Guyton has been in the weight room every day. He’s working his ass off,” Schottenheimer said. “To me that’s really exciting, I think the influence of Klayton [Adams], the influence of Conor Riley, I think that package was so important for us, and I think we hit a home run.” If Dallas is banking on Guyton becoming their future left tackle and dominating as Tyron Smith did for so many years, Adams and Riley are two of the best at making that dream a reality.