One of the sneakier needs for the Dallas Cowboys this offseason is wide receiver. The team saw two of their top producers at the positions depart this offseason, leaving a void on the depth chart.
Amari Cooper was essentially a cap casualty when he was traded to the Cleveland Browns. Dallas needed to free up some money to get under the salary cap. Cedrick Wilson Jr., who filled in admirably when injuries occurred last season, left for the Miami Dolphins in free agency.
The team was able to re-sign Michael Gallup, which long-term will certainly benefit them. However, he will likely miss a large chunk of the regular season as he recovers from an ACL tear that he suffered in a Week 17 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
Given the personnel that the Cowboys use on offense, as they were in three-wide receiver sets in more than two-thirds of their plays in 2021, they could use some help behind CeeDee Lamb. One veteran to keep an eye on according to CBS Sports is Julio Jones.
Jones struggled mightily with the Tennessee Titans last season as he battled through injuries. Those injuries have derailed him in recent years, but he has proven he can still produce as long as he is on the field. He averaged 14 yards per reception with the Titans. Two seasons ago with the Atlanta Falcons, Jones had 1,394 yards so the potential is there.
Jerry Jones has never been shy about adding big-name players to the roster. Jones still carries some gravitas, but his ability to stay on the field is a legitimate concern. Knowing they have Gallup coming back eventually, Dallas may be more willing to take a chance on Jones.
He will never have to be the No. 1 go-to receiver, as they can mix him into the lineup in certain situations. That could help keep Jones healthy throughout the season, not be relied upon as an every down player.
The Alabama product is beyond his prime but can still get the job done with his veteran savvy. He would also provide a nice red-zone target for Dak Prescott, as he stands 6’3”. It likely won’t break the bank to bring him in either, providing the Cowboys with a solid No. 2 or 3 receiver for their depth chart.
