Dallas, TX - The preseason is almost over, and the Dallas Cowboys are on the clock. With the final tune-up game looming, the roster bubble is about to burst. While starters likely watch from the sideline in visors and baseball caps, this contest is a golden ticket for the fringe guys. So, who’s heating up at the perfect time? Who’s seizing the moment and forcing the coaching staff to keep them in Arlington? Let’s break down the stock risers as the Cowboys gear up for the season opener.
The energy in Oxnard has been electric, but the real fireworks start now. This is a roster loaded with Pro Bowlers, yet the difference between a Super Bowl run and an early vacation often hinges on the unsung heroes - the guys who earn their stripes in August. This finale isn’t just about running out the clock; it’s a live audition for a handful of roster spots. For these players, every snap is a message to the front office. And boy, are some of them sending a loud and clear signal.
The Offensive Weapons Making a Late Push
When the Cowboys drafted a new group of skill-position players, the competition was supposed to be tight. But a few names have separated themselves from the pack with explosive plays and consistent hands. This final game is their chance to slam the door on any doubters.
The Receiver Room Shake-Up
The top of the depth chart is set, but the WR3 and WR4 spots are a battleground. Keep an eye on the young speedster who has been torching second-team cornerbacks all camp. His route running has become sharper, and he’s showing a knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage. He’s not just a deep threat anymore; he’s a complete route runner. This preseason finale is his chance to prove he’s too dynamic to leave off the 53-man roster. If he gets a couple of targets early, expect him to take it to the house.
There’s a real shift happening here. He’s not just relying on raw speed to win; he’s setting up defenders with his stem work and using his hands to snatch the ball out of the air aggressively. The coaching staff has been spotted having extended conversations with him on the sideline, which is always a good sign for a youngster. He’s forcing his way into the conversation, and a big stat line in the finale could make him an instant fan favorite.
Tight End Depth
The tight end group has been a pleasant surprise, with the backup emerging as a reliable safety valve. He’s been a red-zone monster in practice, using his frame to box out defenders. With the starting tight end expected to rest, this is a prime opportunity for the backup to showcase his blocking and receiving skills in live action. A strong performance here could earn him a significant role in the regular season’s short-yardage packages.
📊 2 Sacks & 1 FF this preseason - The UDFA edge rusher has been a constant backfield menace, making him a near-lock for the final 53.
He’s the safety blanket quarterbacks love - a big target who can high-point the ball and move the chains on third down. His run blocking has also improved dramatically, which is crucial for a team that wants to establish the ground game early. He isn’t just a camp body; he’s a chess piece the offensive coordinator can deploy in multiple formations. Expect to see him heavily utilized in the finale as the staff evaluates his stamina and consistency against first-team defenders.
Defensive Playmakers Earning Their Keep
The Cowboys defense is hunting for rotational pieces and special teams aces. A couple of defenders have been flying around the field, making splash plays that are hard to ignore. They’re playing with a chip on their shoulder and a hunger that the starters can’t always replicate in the preseason.
