The Dallas Cowboys started their season off in tremendous fashion, going into Cleveland and dominating the Browns 33-17. Considering the visiting team entered as a slight underdog, it’s pretty fair to say that the Cowboys put on a top-to-bottom show. In this week’s stock report, we get a good idea of which players significantly rose to the forefront and those who were unable to leave much of an impression. Let’s get to the key risers and fallers from the Dallas Cowboys’ first game of the season.
DeMarvion Overshown: The New Star
Look no further than linebacker DeMarvion Overshown. He led the team with 11 total tackles, showing his across-the-board ability with five solo tackles, a sack, and one takedown for loss. It wasn’t all glitz for the fans, though, as Overshown tallied an 88.6 Pro Football Focus grade in that performance number, placing him as one of the best linebackers in the league. There is little doubt, with a start like this, that Overshown could be the difference maker the Cowboys have been searching for.
Eric Kendricks: The Veteran Impact
Not to be outdone, key offseason acquisition Eric Kendricks also made a big first impression for the Dallas Cowboys. He amassed nine total tackles, five of which were solo stops, two sacks, and an interception. So far, it’s paid off as his experience carries over from Mike Zimmer’s defensive schemes, and he could very well be in for one of the best seasons of his career. The influence Kendricks had in a game showed that the Cowboys invested wisely in this veteran linebacker.
The Rookie Class: Off to a Strong Start
The 2024 rookie class got off to a good start as there was a couple who immediately made an impact. Cooper Beebe was good in pass protection, handling his assignments against the run game. Tyler Guyton had arguably one of the toughest matchups in the league in Myles Garrett and fared well against him. Marshawn Kneeland added on six pressures and a few the opposite of simply a run-stopper; he’s at least that and more. Although Marist Liufau was much less conspicuous, Caelen Carson had a good debut himself with four tackles and some pass breakups. Overall, the rookies showed that they are ready to contribute.
Rico Dowdle: Struggling for Relevance
Rico Dowdle was supposed to be one of the key contributors to the Dallas Cowboys’ backfield this season, but he was underwhelming during his Week 1 game. With eight carries for a total of 26 yards and just one reception for six yards, Dowdle was outplayed by Ezekiel Elliott. Of course, it is still early, but Dowdle needs to elevate his playing level to a higher tier if he aims to make a significant enough contribution to warrant a part in the large scheme of the team’s plans.
Jalen Tolbert: A Disappointing Debut
It’s fair to say that the lofty expectations many had for Jalen Tolbert were significantly met with disappointment, as he saw only two targets for one catch and 12 yards. The third-year NFL wideout let fans down in a big way. The Dallas Cowboys didn’t have to pass it a whole lot in Week 1, so perhaps we can temper some of our expectations for Tolbert. But with as disappointing a showing as this one, he’s going to have to do better to ensure that he retains his starting spot with Ryan Flournoy, among others, gunning for the job.
Dallas Cowboys Week 1: Stars Shine, Struggles Persist
Week 1 was somewhat of a mixed bag, with stock elevators and plummeting disappointments for the Dallas Cowboys. Arguably, the cases for DeMarvion Overshown and Eric Kendricks being set regarding their places within the team have proven these can be game-changers this season. Plenty of promise was shown that the future is bright in Dallas by this rookie class. However, Rico Dowdle, Jalen Tolbert, and Chauncey Golston are three players who will need to rebound and get better if they want to stay key contributors. It will be interesting to see how the adjustments go throughout the season and how these players take part in the success of the Cowboys.
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