OXNARD, California- The Dallas Cowboys concluded day three of Training Camp and an area of strength that has emerged for the team’s offense is the receiver core with Amari Cooper’s standout performance in the latter part of the 2018 season and the addition of Randall Cobb.
Cobb is a versatile receiver who can line up in the slot as well as make an impact on special teams. He has a broad experience level, having played quarterback, wide receiver, kick returner, and place kick holder in college at Kentucky. He thrives under pressure in big games, has substantial short-area speed, and can get open against zone.
I spoke with Cooper on what Cobb’s versatility can bring to Dallas and he responded, “ He’s a very versatile guy who can do it all; In and out of his breaks he is quick. He has some good speed, great hands, and he will be a complement to the offense. “
Cooper came in midway through the 2018 season following the trade and changed the way defenses prep for Dallas. His signature is his ability to create separation from corners on routes. He is as detail oriented as they come and is a threat deep downfield.
“ He completely changed our offense, “ wide receiver coach Sanjay Lal discussed with me. “We won some close games that probably without him, we would not have. When he came, he had a renewed energy and resurgence of sorts. I think he just fell in love with the Cowboys. To this day he just says ‘I love being here’ and it sparked a fire in him. “
Following his acquisition in week nine, Cooper converted 74% of his receptions into first downs and the team went from a third-down percentage ranking of 30th in the NFL to becoming first. He became an instant impact on the gridiron and go-to target for Dak Prescott in critical third and fourth down situations that changed the outcome of ballgames in favor of the Cowboys. He is an inquisitive player that wants to know the ‘why’ behind everything he does on the field, and if he believes in the cause, nothing will stand in his way of accomplishing a goal and succeeding.
A trait he received from his mother. Throughout his life, his mom has been his greatest role model and motivator.
“ She has been the biggest influence on my life, “ Amari shared with me. “ I would say she led by example. To this day I don’t smoke or drink and I never have because I never saw her do it. That was something she didn’t want me to do and I kept my word with that. She is such a hard worker, I get a lot of my traits from her.”
Looking ahead to the 2019 season, new innovative offensive coordinator, Kellen Moore, will have no shortage of weapons with the duo of Cobb and Cooper! Defenses, be aware.
