While all eyes seem to be fixed on the veterans, there are plenty of rookies turning heads here at training camp.
Let’s look at the top five rookies, based solely on their performance during the first week of camp and not as much from their expectations.
1. Tyrone Crawford -- Even without playing a down, Crawford is starting to get the Cowboys excited about his potential. The defensive end spot in a 3-4 scheme isn’t always a playmaker, considering he’s usually taking on double teams. But Crawford might be a difference-maker with his pass-rush skills. He’s a high-motor player who continues to show up with each pass-rushing drill. With Jason Hatcher (hamstring) and Marcus Spears (concussion) both sidelined with injuries, Crawford is taking full advantage and seems to be showing he’s ready for a big role this season.
2. Ron Leary -- Considering he is battling for a starting job with David Arkin, Leary has to be high on this list. An undrafted guard from Memphis, Leary actually played tackle in college and is making the adjustment on the run. But as the practices and reps stack up, Leary continues to gain experience with each passing day. While Mackenzy Bernadeau is returning soon from a hip injury and the newly-signed vets Derrick Dockery and Daniel Loper will figure into the mix, the Cowboys would certainly like for Leary to continue his progress.
3. Tim Benford -- With the young receivers all jostling for position, Benford is starting to become the most consistent of the group. An undrafted free agent from Tennessee Tech, Benford caught two touchdowns and had another diving catch in the scrimmage. He’s moved up from a bottom-of-the-roster receiver to a legitimate No. 3 candidate.
4. Morris Claiborne – The Cowboys have to hope he’s the No. 1 player on this list all year long and once he returns from a knee injury, he probably will be. The mild MCL sprain that has kept the No. 6 overall pick out of practice has hampered the defense the last few days. When healthy, he’s going to be the starting right cornerback, but after missing all summer rehabbing the wrist injury and now a small setback with the knee, Claiborne has yet to show his full potential.
5. Cole Beasley – Despite his decision to leave the team for personal reasons last week, Beasley not only came back, but has been better than before. He seems more focused and determined to win a roster spot. He’s only 5-8, 177, but Beasley just knows how to get open and catch the ball. With this receiving squad, those are valuable traits.
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