6 Must-See Game-Changers Ready to Dominate Seahawks
Dallas Cowboys Preseason Opener: 6 Young Players to Watch Against the Seahawks
Location: Oxnard, California
Matchup: Dallas Cowboys vs. Seattle Seahawks
Status: Preseason Game 1 (of 3)
Why This Game Matters
Think of preseason games like scrimmages before the real season starts. They don’t count in the standings, but they’re huge for players fighting for roster spots.
For the Cowboys, this Saturday night game against the Seahawks is the first chance to see:
- Young players prove they belong on the 53-man roster
- Position battles play out in real game action (not just practice)
- Coaches evaluate who performs under stadium lights
Important Point: The biggest position battles entering camp are Backup Quarterback (QB2), Backup Running Back (RB2), and Backup Cornerback (CB2) — but there are many other roster spots up for grabs.
6 Players to Watch in the Preseason Opener
Our staff writers have identified six players who could make a name for themselves tonight:
1. Jaydon Blue — Running Back (RB2 Battle)
Writer: Tommy Yarrish
- Superpower: Blazing speed — faster than the other RB2 contenders
- Question Mark: Ball security (fumbling has held him back)
- What to Watch: Can he hold onto the football and use his speed to make big plays?
- Bottom Line: This game could decide if he makes the final roster
2. Justin Barron — Linebacker
Writer: Patrik Walker
- Camp Highlight: 3 interceptions in ONE joint practice against the Rams
- Context: The Cowboys are still figuring out linebacker depth
- What to Watch: Can he build on that amazing practice and make plays in a real game?
- Why It Matters: A strong showing could lock up a roster spot
3. Michael Trigg — Tight End (Rookie)
Writer: Nick Eatman
- Coach’s Quote: Called "unguardable" by head coach Mike McCarthy
- Strength: Elite athletic ability
- Challenge: Like all rookies, he’s learning the "little details" of the NFL game
- Best Opportunity: Second half of the game (more playing time vs. backups)
4. LT Overton — Defensive Lineman (4th Round Pick)
Writer: Tommy Yarrish
- Notable Achievement: Getting first-team defense reps in practice — rare for a Day 3 draft pick
- Strength: Power in the middle of the line
- What to Watch: Can he translate that practice strength to game action?
- Upside: A good game helps him climb the depth chart fast
5. Anthony Smith — Wide Receiver (7th Round Rookie)
Writer: Patrik Walker
- The Puzzle: Everyone knows the top 3 WRs (Lamb, Cooks, Tolbert) — but WR4 and WR5 are wide open
- Camp Performance: Multiple great practices, including standout showing vs. Rams
- Background: Dynamic playmaker from ECU (East Carolina University)
- Question: Can he "steal the show" and force his way onto the roster?
6. Alijah Clark — Safety (2nd Year)
Writer: Nick Eatman
- Comeback Story: Looked like a serious ankle injury weeks ago → now "flying around" at practice
- Bonus: Even mixing it up with receivers (shows confidence)
- Challenge: Very crowded safety room
- Golden Opportunity: Several safeties won’t play tonight → chance for Clark (and Julius Wood) to stand out
How to Watch Like a Pro: 4 Things to Track
-
First Half = Starters & Top Backups
→ Watch how the "bubble players" perform with the 2nd/3rd team units -
Second Half = Roster Battle Royale
→ This is where fringe players (like Trigg, Smith, Clark) get the most snaps -
Special Teams Matter
→ Many final roster spots go to players who excel on kick/punt coverage - Box Score ≠ Full Story
→ A player with 2 catches for 15 yards might have run perfect routes all night
Summary
| Player | Position | Draft Status | Key Storyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jaydon Blue | RB | Undrafted | Speed vs. ball security |
| Justin Barron | LB | Undrafted | 3 INTs in practice — can he do it in a game? |
| Michael Trigg | TE | Undrafted (Rookie) | "Unguardable" athletic traits, learning details |
| LT Overton | DL | 4th Round | Rare Day 3 pick getting 1st-team reps |
| Anthony Smith | WR | 7th Round (Rookie) | Fighting for WR4/5 spot, great camp |
| Alijah Clark | S | Undrafted (2nd Year) | Injury comeback, crowded position group |
Bottom Line: Tonight isn’t about the final score — it’s about who earns a locker when the regular season starts.
FAQ
Do preseason games count toward the regular season record?
No. Preseason games (3 per team) are exhibition only. They help coaches evaluate players, but the wins/losses don’t matter for playoff standings.
What does "QB2," "RB2," "CB2" mean?
The number 2 means "backup" or "second-string." So QB2 = Backup Quarterback, RB2 = Backup Running Back, CB2 = Backup Cornerback.
Why do 7th round picks and undrafted players matter?
Most NFL rosters have 53 spots. Late-round picks and undrafted free agents fight for the final 10–15 spots. Many become stars (like Tony Romo — undrafted!).
What’s a "joint practice"?
Two teams practice together for a few days before a preseason game. It’s more intense than regular practice because you’re going against different opponents.
When do the Cowboys play their first real game?
The 2024 regular season kicks off in early September. Check the NFL schedule for the exact date and opponent.
Final Thought: Preseason is where dreams stay alive or end. For these six Cowboys, Saturday night is their moment.