The Cowboys’ 2024 season has fallen short of expectations on many fronts.
However, one of the most concerning issues is the underperformance of the wide receivers, a group that was supposed to be a roster strength. Through three weeks, they’ve struggled greatly.
It’s not shocking to see the Cowboys’ running backs struggle, considering the team invested little in that group this offseason. Nor is it surprising that their defense has been poor, particularly against the run, as they didn’t address key problems from 2023.
But the receivers? They were expected to have at least one Top 5 talent, along with solid supporting players.
That hasn’t been the case. Even with CeeDee Lamb signing a four-year, $136 million deal, making him the NFL’s second-highest paid receiver, the Cowboys lack a receiver ranked in the top half of the 112 players graded weekly by Pro Football Focus.
Even if Lamb improves, the Cowboys are likely to address the position in the 2025 NFL Draft. CBS Sports projects them to draft Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka.
Emeka Egbuka Has Shown Progress
After a slow start, Egbuka has improved as the season has progressed. He had 51 yards in Ohio State’s opener, 98 yards in Week 2, and a season-high 117 yards with a touchdown against Marshall.
As CBS notes, “Even after signing CeeDee Lamb to a massive extension, they still have significant issues at receiver. Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka could greatly help Dak Prescott.”
Ranked the No. 4 wide receiver by PFF and No. 25 overall prospect, Egbuka is recovering from “tightrope surgery” on his left ankle. He must prove he’s still explosive against better opponents.
Bleacher Report’s scouting profile describes Egbuka as “a silky smooth slot operator” and a key asset in the passing game. While not a top-tier athlete, his smart use of speed and precision helps him succeed.
Cowboys Receivers Are Below Average
Currently, the Cowboys’ receiving corps has been a weak link in their offensive struggles. Lamb missed training camp and much of the preseason, and currently ranks 67th among NFL receivers with a 61.4 grade from PFF.
Jalen Tolbert holds a 61.6 grade, ranking 66th, while veteran Brandin Cooks has a 55.8 grade, putting him at 81st overall. Jalen Brooks, with only 54 snaps, is their best option at 63.7, ranked 57th.
Lamb should improve, and perhaps the others will too. Cooks, however, will be a free agent after the season. Drafting someone like Egbuka could provide a No. 2 receiver behind Lamb and replace Cooks.
The Cowboys aim to improve their receiver situation both in the short and long term. Egbuka or another 2025 prospect could be the solution.
