OXNARD, Calif. – Entering the last week of Training Camp in Oxnard California, Owner and General Manager, Jerry Jones, addressed the media on his takeaway of the difference makers on and off the field in the three weeks of camp thus far.
He expressed the spirit of Tavon Austin, compared to the old “playmaker” on the field wearing a Star, “I like the way the first group has competed and the way we are moving around out there. Specifically, I like the energy number 10 is bringing. That is ordinate because of the nature of how we have gotten him here and then his pedigree as well as the energy of Michael Irvin. I know the guys appreciate him. I sure do, and to have that kind of impact on his teammates. “
Michael Irvin is both in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and in the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor. He is one of the greatest wide receivers in history for the Cowboys and arguably to have ever played the game. The five-time pro-bowler played a big role in Super Bowl’s XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX with his relentless energy and ability to succeed on big plays, and Jones sees that same spirit in Tavon Austin. That compliment speaks volumes to Austin’s character, and the value that the coaching staff believes he will bring to the field during the 2018 season. He is a versatile player, and the Cowboys plan on getting him the ball in a variety of ways.
He also described the value of Jaylon Smith and the statement he makes in the linebacker core, “What I have seen right now in practice and what I saw during off-season, completely justifies our drafting him in the second round. He not only has a chance to really help us on the field but he is one of our potential cornerstones in every way, leadership as well as playing. “
The Cowboys took a chance on Smith back in the 2016 NFL Draft, with the hope that his knee would rejuvenate and heal properly. Many teams discarded him, but the Cowboys had faith in his ability and the positive attitude and passion he brought to the field at Notre Dame, and it has paid off. He had a breakout season last year during his first appearance as a starter amassing 81 combined tackles, 50 total, one sack, and two pass defends. He is now in the first team at the middle linebacker position. With his brace off, he is playing with more ease and assurance on the field. Nothing can hold Smith down with his “Clear Eye View” and incredible mindset. His positive energy is inspirational to fans and his teammates.
Both of these guys will play big roles for the Cowboys in 2018 on the offense and defense side of the ball.
