Schottenheimer Sits Stars, Forces Rookies to Carry the Load
Brian Schottenheimer made a bold call before the pads even hit the field in Oxnard. Reports confirm that most starters won’t play during the preseason. That directive silenced the chatter at practice on August 3. Fans expect to see Dak Prescott and George Pickens grind out the early weeks, yet the team is hiding its best players from the first three games. The coaching staff isn’t worried about the crowd; they’re worried about finding the depth Dallas needs before the real season starts.
This move flips the old script for America’s Team. Usually, veterans log snaps to build rhythm. Now, the focus shifts entirely to the rookies and the backup corps. It’s a risky bet, but it might be the only way to find the depth Dallas needs. Can the second-string unit survive without the stars?
The Pass Rush Dilemma
The defense has a glaring hole that needs filling right now. The interior line can stop the run, but they struggle to get to the quarterback. Donovan Ezeiruaku and Malachi Lawrence are young, but they haven’t shown consistent pressure yet. Ezeiruaku even got sent out of practice after a scuffle on August 3.
Rashan Gary is a veteran, yet he excels at stopping the run more than rushing the passer. The front office has hinted at getting more help. Some fans are asking if the team should chase Maxx Crosby from the Raiders. The Cowboys and Raiders have a good working relationship, so a trade isn’t impossible. But if the starters sit, the young guys must prove they can generate pressure against the Rams and Saints.
A Linebacker Surprise
The linebacker room was supposed to need a veteran like Jordyn Brooks or Bobby Wagner. That need might have vanished in just a few weeks. Rookie Jaishawn Barham has been outstanding in every drill. He brings strength and physicality that the team lacked last year. Jerry Jones even mentioned Barham when asked about players catching his eye early.
He isn’t the only one rising. DeMarvion Overshown looks ready for greatness if he stays healthy. He made a huge hit on Hunter Luepke during practice. With Barham and Overshown stepping up, adding another veteran feels like a luxury the team doesn’t need. The competition is still alive, but the rookies are leading the charge.
The Secondary Test
Shavon Revel Jr. faces a tough job in the secondary. He has to go head-to-head with George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb every day. Pickens has won several one-on-one battles with his elite ball skills. Revel has shown flashes of his physical tools, but he’s still learning. These reps against top-tier receivers are exactly what he needs.
Facing Pickens will expose his weaknesses and force him to grow faster. The coaching staff wants to see how he handles the heat. If he can hold his own against Pickens, he is set for a key role this year. The pads are on, and the real work begins now.
The injury report shows Jalen Thompson isn’t ready yet, while P.J. Locke is closer to returning. The team will keep the starters fresh for the real season. The focus is on wrapping up and releasing, not just thudding up. Brian Schottenheimer wants the players to stay off the ground. The preseason games are coming up, but the stars will likely stay on the bench. The real test for Dallas is how well the backups can fill the gap.
Starters sitting out the first three preseason contests.
