As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for their mandatory minicamp next week, the team’s Organized Team Activities (OTAs) have wrapped up with limited fanfare due to the absence of live contact and restricted media access to practice clips. While the sessions didn’t provide much in terms of highlight-reel plays, insights from player and coach comments, along with reported rep distributions, have shed light on a few standout performers. Here are the three biggest winners from Cowboys OTAs, including a veteran who seemed destined for the chopping block but is now staging a remarkable comeback.
LB Damone Clark: The Veteran Making a Stunning Resurgence
Linebacker Damone Clark’s journey with the Cowboys has been a rollercoaster. After starting 17 games in 2023, Clark found himself benched the following year, and his role diminished significantly when Mike Zimmer took over as defensive coordinator. Many believed his days in Dallas were numbered. However, under new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus and linebackers coach Dave Borgonzi, Clark is turning heads and defying expectations.
Offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer highlighted Clark’s strong connection with the coaching staff, noting, “I think the connection that he has with (Matt Eberflus) and (Dave Borgonzi)—I think that’s important. Damone, he’s such a pleaser, he wants to do things the right way. That relationship that he’s developed with Dave Borgonzi is incredible.” Eberflus’ one-gap defensive scheme appears to suit Clark better than Zimmer’s system, reducing his responsibilities and allowing him to thrive. Once thought to be on the roster bubble, Clark now looks like a lock for the 53-man roster, marking an impressive comeback.
QB Joe Milton: Securing the No. 2 Spot
Rookie quarterback Joe Milton had his share of ups and downs during OTAs, with mistakes sprinkled among his highlight-worthy plays. However, he emerged as the clear No. 2 quarterback behind starter Dak Prescott, ahead of Will Grier. This is a significant development, especially considering the Cowboys’ trade to acquire Milton and last year’s depth chart, where Trey Lance struggled to overtake Cooper Rush.
Milton’s performance in OTAs solidifies his position as the backup quarterback, a role that seems to be his to lose. While he still has plenty of room to grow, his ability to outshine competitors during these sessions marks him as a winner and a player to watch as the season approaches.
WR George Pickens: Attitude and Athleticism Shine
Wide receiver George Pickens has long been known for his jaw-dropping athleticism, but it’s his improved attitude and work ethic that have coaches buzzing. During OTAs, Schottenheimer praised Pickens for his engagement in the meeting room, a sign of his growing maturity. In a notable moment, when CeeDee Lamb dropped a pass and hit the ground for pushups as a self-imposed penalty, Pickens followed suit despite not being the one who made the mistake. This display of accountability and team-first mentality speaks volumes about his development.
Pickens’ athletic gifts are undeniable, but his commitment to improving his work ethic and leadership sets him apart as a standout from OTAs. If he maintains this trajectory, he could be a key contributor for the Cowboys this season.
Looking Ahead
While OTAs offered limited glimpses into on-field action, the performances and intangibles displayed by Damone Clark, Joe Milton, and George Pickens have generated excitement. Clark’s resurgence, Milton’s rise in the quarterback room, and Pickens’ newfound maturity signal bright spots for Dallas as they head into minicamp. These three players have stolen the show, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing training camp.