Dallas Cowboys had a so-so season last year, so there are many players on their roster that could have a breakout year. A few days ago Bleacher Report made a list of players of every NFL franchise that could have a breakout year. There weren’t any particular parameters. It was just about players that could make a huge leap next season, and take their game to the next level. It doesn’t need to be a rookie or a second-year player; it can be a veteran. One of the examples BR gave was Cowboys DE DeMarcus Lawrence who had a breakout in 2017 in his fourth season. Talking about 2018 season, Bleacher Report singled out Jourdan Lewis as Cowboys breakout player for the campaign to come.
Their choice is good, but there are many candidates on America’s Team roster who could have a breakout year. Lewis did well in his rookie season, and he is expected to continue in the same manner this year. He will be moved to his natural slot corner position, and his game should further improve.
Cowboys secondary, in general, is expected to be a hellish unit with new coach Kris Richard and Byron Jones who was moved from safety back to cornerback. Another corner that did well last year is Chidobe Awuzie who could see more snaps in 2018. Big D franchise didn’t draft a safety, nor they have signed one in free agency, so a lot is expected out of Xavier Woods who seems to be on the road to be undisputed starter.
Our focus is on Cowboys defense. Players such as David Irving and Taco Charlton have a potential for a leap in 2018. Irving could have a year similar to the one Lawrence had the last term if he stays healthy and out of trouble through 16 games. Charlton had a slow start to 2017 but picked up his pace and finished well. He also started slow in college but ended as a first-round pick in the NFL Draft. Cowboys have huge expectations of this guy.
On the offense, the focus will be on the Cowboys TE group. Witten is no more, and players such as Rico Gathers, and Blake Jarwin will have a chance to prove themselves. New receivers Allen Hurns and Michael Gallup should see much more action and become Dak Prescott’s primary targets. They will be given an opportunity to pile up receptions, yards, and touchdowns. The second round pick Connor Williams could have his place in the Great Wall Of Dallas where the chances are high that he will be an elite player surrounded by more of the same.
The battle for a place on the 53 man rosters only starting. There aren’t many positions guaranteed in Dallas. For those that aren’t a chance to be a breakout player is there to grab it.
