The Cowboys recently visited the Los Angeles Rams for an intra-squad scrimmage. The Rams are loaded with talent and among the favorites to contend for the Super Bowl, making them a very good measuring stick for Dallas. Although the scrimmage wasn’t open to the public, news has emerged about who stood out and who didn’t fare as well. For example, reserve linebacker Justin Barron recorded three interceptions, and Shavon Revel had a strong day in coverage.
For the team, it’s a moment to feel great about where they are and also a chance to recalibrate before Saturday’s preseason opener. For some players, it unfortunately illustrated the need to pick it up before it’s too late. Before Dallas travels to Seattle, let’s examine who is on the hot seat. Here are four players already in danger of missing the cut.
Sam Howell
Offhand, can you think of one Sam Howell highlight at training camp? Sam Howell is in open competition for the backup quarterback job with Joe Milton. Milton, who has had trouble with accuracy since joining the Cowboys, has made some good throws thus far. His athleticism has allowed him to extend plays and make big-time throws outside of the framework of the offense.
For Howell, he hasn’t flashed as much and has taken a backseat to Milton. Howell has much more regular season experience than Milton does, but right now Howell is on the outside looking in. Don’t expect Dallas to carry three quarterbacks on the active roster. There still would be an avenue for Howell to remain with the team on the practice squad, but as of now, it’s hard to imagine Howell making the 53-man roster.
Malik Davis
While at first some might have thought Phil Mafah is the running back in the most trouble to make the team, it’s actually Malik Davis who is in hot water. From what we’ve seen, Javonte Williams is the top runner, followed by Jaydon Blue, and then Phil Mafah according to the team’s depth chart.
While Davis has more value on special teams than Mafah does, Mafah is the more powerful, downhill mauler like Javonte Williams, and Blue has that second gear of speed that Davis almost has, making Davis’ role somewhat redundant when you factor Blue’s explosiveness.
Mafah does need to stack together a few really good games in the preseason to hold his spot ahead of Davis, but it looks like he’s very much ahead. Also, don’t forget about Israel Abanikanda. He’s got a physical running style and very good speed who could showcase his talents in the later stages of these upcoming preseason games. He may also get some opportunities on kickoffs as well. Things are looking murky for Davis right now.
Anthony Smith
The Dallas Cowboys boast a very good wide receiver group where it would be hard to get targets outside of the top three receivers, let alone earn a spot on the team. CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens spearhead the pecking order. Meanwhile, Ryan Flournoy looks primed to be an essential third receiver to further elevate the group. KaVontae Turpin is still recognized in the NFL as one of the best return specialists in the league. You can practically pencil him in as the fourth receiver.
This leaves Anthony Smith battling for one roster spot with the remainder of the field. Can Smith outshine Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Jonathan Mingo, Traeshon Holden, Camden Brown or Denzel Mims for a spot? From what we’ve seen, it doesn’t look likely. He’s going to have to step up tremendously to even have a remote chance. His status as a seventh-round draft pick isn’t enough investment from the team to feel uncomfortable parting with him, and without some splash moments during the preseason, it’s not looking good for the rookie receiver.
Markquese Bell
The Cowboys have completely reconstructed the safety position, and that’s somewhat due in part to Christian Parker’s influence. Not only did the Cowboys land Caleb Downs, who can play the slot or either safety position, they also signed veteran Jalen Thompson before the draft. Malik Hooker redid his contract to remain with the team, so his place is cemented for this season.
Where it gets dicey for Bell is being able to separate himself from others for down-roster spots on the depth chart. P.J. Locke was signed because of his connection to Parker. Julius Wood and Alijah Clark are also in the mix. Bell arguably might be the most limited safety in terms of range in pass coverage on the team. He’s the safest player on this, but nowhere near where he should feel comfortable.