The Dallas Cowboys are known for their electrifying offense, headlined by star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. But beyond Lamb, the Cowboys are struggling to find reliable depth at the position. This was clear last season when veteran Brandin Cooks failed to meet expectations and Michael Gallup couldn’t overcome the injury setbacks that eventually led to his release this offseason.
Due to financial constraints, Dallas was unable to bring in significant free-agent talent and didn’t draft a wide receiver until the sixth round. This has left many wondering if the current lineup, especially Cooks, will be enough support for Lamb in the upcoming 2024 season.
The Case for Treylon Burks
NFL insiders believe Tennessee Titans wide receiver Treylon Burks could be the answer to the Dallas Cowboys’ receiving woes. Matt Lombardo of Heavy Sports cited an AFC scouting director who sees potential in Burks:
“Treylon’s obviously a big slot target,” the executive mentioned. “You’d have to have a simple route tree for him, though. He’s big, physical, still on a rookie deal, and that makes him more than worth taking a flier on.”
However, Burks’ potential hasn’t yet translated into consistent performance. Drafted 18th overall in 2022, the University of Arkansas product has been plagued by injuries and underperformance, logging only 33 receptions for 444 yards and a touchdown in his rookie season. He fared worse in 2023, with just 16 catches for 221 yards.
The Dallas Cowboys needs to re-sign Stephon Gilmore pic.twitter.com/sbudDwUdHH
— ✭ NICK ✭ (@nickc0488) May 2, 2024
Scouts See Potential in Treylon Burks
Despite the challenges, the AFC scouting director believes Burks could still thrive in the right situation:
“He’s a bust as a first-round pick,” the executive stated. “But he can be a situational piece in the right scheme. He has good hands, is strong but is at his best working inside or in bubble screen situations where you can use his power to run after the catch.”
Burks’ size (6-foot-2, 225 pounds) makes him a physically imposing presence on the field, although he lacks elite speed. Yet, in a system that allows him to maximize his strength and work in the slot, he could emerge as a possession receiver and complement Lamb’s deep-threat capabilities.
A Worthwhile Gamble for Dallas Cowboys?
With the Tennessee Titans boasting a trio of Calvin Ridley, DeAndre Hopkins, and Tyler Boyd, Burks might find himself on the trading block. Given the Dallas Cowboys’ current wide receiver landscape, this could be a move worth considering for Dallas. Bringing Burks to Arlington would give the team an opportunity to revitalize his career while adding much-needed depth.
