The Dallas Cowboys have just wrapped up their Organized Team Activities (OTAs), offering the first glimpses into a team undergoing significant change under a new coaching staff led by Brian Schottenheimer. While OTAs are notoriously light on contact and heavy on speculation, early buzz suggests several players are making a strong case for increased roles. The most surprising development? Former Carolina Panthers running back Miles Sanders, once considered a cut candidate, is now reportedly “throwing his name into the RB1 conversation,” shaking up the narrative around the Cowboys’ backfield.
Unexpected Risers and Key Position Battles
The limited, non-contact nature of OTAs means that true evaluations are still a long way off. However, the sessions provide a valuable opportunity for players to impress new coaches and for narratives to begin forming. This year, the positive talk around the Cowboys is palpable, driven by Schottenheimer’s early impact. Let’s delve into the seven players who have particularly stood out:
Juanyeh Thomas, S: With Jourdan Lewis’s departure, the slot corner position is open. While DaRon Bland has been working with the first team, Juanyeh Thomas is making a strong push. His “versatility to play multiple positions” and existing coverage skills could be his ticket to a breakout year. This competition could lead to a stronger secondary overall.
Jay Toia, DT: The rookie seventh-round pick is turning heads at defensive tackle. With Mazi Smith yet to solidify his role as the future nose tackle, Toia has “earned first-team reps during OTAs.” This unexpected rise suggests a promising interior presence, potentially alleviating the need for a major waiver wire addition.
Damone Clark, LB: Despite being overshadowed by offseason additions and other young linebackers like DeMarvion Overshown and Marist Liufau, Damone Clark is reminding everyone of his 2022 NFL Draft “steal” potential. Flourishing under new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, Clark is “in line for a bounce-back season,” adding much-needed depth and competition to the linebacker corps.
Kaiir Elam, CB: The former first-round pick, traded to Dallas this offseason after struggling with the Buffalo Bills, is making the most of his fresh start. Elam has been “one of the top corners during practices,” taking advantage of Trevon Diggs’ absence to consistently line up with the starters. This is a crucial opportunity for Elam to resurrect his career and provide immediate impact.
Joe Milton III, QB: Acquired to back up Dak Prescott, the rocket-armed Milton offers a completely different skillset than his predecessor, Cooper Rush. His ability to “push the ball downfield with ease” and impressive athleticism (including viral backflips) suggests he could be “a lot of fun to watch” if called upon. While ideally Prescott stays healthy, Milton’s development as an exciting Plan B is a significant positive.
George Pickens, WR: A change of scenery from Pittsburgh seems to have been precisely what George Pickens needed. His talent was never in doubt, but his fit in the Steelers’ system was questioned. In Dallas, he’s reportedly been “a model teammate” and has garnered praise from “everyone in the building.” If he can maintain this momentum, Pickens could be a formidable addition to the Cowboys’ receiving corps.
Miles Sanders, RB: The biggest shocker from OTAs. Despite the Cowboys adding four running backs this offseason, including highly anticipated names like Javonte Williams and Jaydon Blue, Miles Sanders, who struggled mightily with the Carolina Panthers, has “thrown his name into the RB1 conversation.” Initially seen as a cut candidate, Sanders has impressed Schottenheimer and feels “more comfortable” in the new system. This unexpected resurgence adds a fascinating layer to the Cowboys’ crowded backfield, potentially creating a significant competition for touches.
A Promising Start for the New Era?
The Dallas Cowboys’ 2025 OTAs have provided an exciting, if early, glimpse into the team’s potential. The emergence of unexpected standouts like Miles Sanders in the RB1 race, coupled with the strong performances from other key positions, suggests that the new coaching staff is already fostering a competitive and positive environment. While the true tests lie ahead in minicamp and training camp, these early positive reports offer a glimmer of hope for a franchise eager to shed its recent playoff disappointments. The battle for roster spots and starting roles is clearly underway, and the Cowboys’ future looks more intriguing than many had initially anticipated.