FRISCO, Texas – The Cowboys kicked off their first round of voluntary organized team activities (OTAs) on Monday. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer and his staff are seeing their complete roster for the first time, including 18 new rookies.
The media will have access to three practices on May 20, May 29, and June 3, packed with intriguing storylines as the team prepares in the coming weeks.
Here are five key points to watch as the Cowboys gather at the Star in Frisco this week:
Will Micah Parsons take the field?
All-Pro linebacker Micah Parsons is among the Cowboys’ stars awaiting a contract extension as he moves into the final year of his rookie contract. While both Parsons and the team suggest a deal will eventually happen, no agreement is in place yet. Parsons attended voluntary workouts in April; the question remains if that will extend to OTAs.
In April, Parsons mentioned, “I’ll still be around,” regarding his participation in training camp without a finalized deal. He indicated the necessity to grasp the playbook fully, even if it means participating less on the field during OTAs.
How active will Dak Prescott be?
As he enters his 10th NFL season, starting quarterback Dak Prescott is coming off a hamstring injury suffered in the ninth week of the 2024 season. Having only experienced two injury-free seasons in the last five years, the Cowboys are likely to proceed cautiously with his preparation.
In April, Prescott stated about his recovery, “I’m getting close to where I want to be.” Although he’s hoping to participate in team activities, he understands the importance of not rushing his return to full health. With videos surfacing of him throwing to teammates, attention will now focus on any limitations he may face during practice as he aims for a successful 2025 season.
What will the CeeDee Lamb/George Pickens relationship look like?
Wide receiver George Pickens will take the field with his new teammates for the first time following his trade from the Steelers. Pickens is entering a crucial year, moving into a secondary role opposite CeeDee Lamb. Both players have the potential to be top receivers, and Pickens expressed enthusiasm about their synergy.
He commented, “CeeDee is a super dynamic receiver,” highlighting the challenge defenses will face in trying to cover them both. The effectiveness of their collaboration on the field will be vital for the Cowboys’ offensive strategy in Schottenheimer’s first year.
Can Tyler Guyton and Mazi Smith step up?
Young players Tyler Guyton and Mazi Smith are expected to make significant strides this season. Under new coaching with proven success, both players are considered pivotal to the team’s development. Guyton, in particular, hopes to build on a mixed rookie season with guidance from the offensive line staff.
Defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton has a history of enhancing player performance, and the Cowboys are optimistic he can help Smith, who has flashed potential but lacks consistency since being drafted in 2023. Increased expectations are placed on both players as their careers progress.
Who will lead in the running back and cornerback positions?
The Cowboys face crucial questions regarding their running back and cornerback positions as OTAs approach, particularly regarding the depth chart and reliance on backup players.
With new additions like Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, alongside draft picks Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, the team must determine if they have a primary back or if a committee approach will remain necessary. Schottenheimer’s focus on rushing makes these positions critical to monitor.
The cornerback position presents its challenges, as injuries have accumulated. Trevon Diggs is still recovering from a knee injury, while draft pick Shavon Revel Jr. is also healing from an ACL tear. As competition heats up during OTAs, the Cowboys need to identify reliable players to step up alongside DaRon Bland.
