Photo Credit: Dallas Cowboys
FRISCO, TEXAS — Getting young players acclimated to the pro level with an entirely virtual offseason program and no preseason presents an unprecedented challenge throughout the league. However, that is not the case for the Dallas Cowboys in regards to their first-round draft pick, CeeDee Lamb.
The rookie has already raised some eyebrows during training camp at the star with his stellar catches, fluid route running, and absorption of his new offensive role in the slot. He has made what appears to be a seamless transition to the NFL.
“ He’s a smart kid, a smart individual, “ Dak Prescott remarked on Lamb. “ He’s been picking it all up, whether it’s adjustments from the formations and plays, that hasn’t slowed him down or slowed his game down any bit at all. I mean he’s just an athletic player. Very, very gifted. Good hands. Has a great feel for the game. I think that’s probably the most impressive thing, to be a young rookie playing in the slot and just have a feel for the game and know where to be. I think that’s going to go a long way and serve him really well in this league. “
The Cowboys were not expecting Lamb to still be available at No.17 overall but their dream came true. McCarthy has stressed since the beginning his desire for players to be versatile and Lamb certainly fits the bill. He can line up in all three-receiver spots to keep defenses guessing and is an eager blocker, which will benefit dual-threat quarterback Dak Prescott when he extends drives using his legs. In addition, it will help open up lanes for Ezekiel Elliott and assist the running game.
Both Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup had 1,000-yard seasons in 2019 and with the addition of Lamb; the receiving trio is looking to have three in 2020. The chemistry between Lamb and Dak is still developing but according to Dak, the trust is evolving at a rapid pace.
“ He’s running the right routes, he’s doing the right things. I think that trust picks up and that trust happens fast. I think you saw it with Amari Cooper a few years ago. Great players have a way of getting open and that always makes that level of trust speed up even faster. These guys are smart individuals and they care about the game of football. It’s been easy and it’s been fun. The trust is definitely gaining, whether it’s a go-ball, whether it’s adjusted plays, he’s gaining that trust. “
Lamb has lived up to the lofty expectations and the Cowboys are on track to have a dangerous passing attack in 2020.
