3 Cowboys Rookies Who Are Exceeding The Hype, and 2 who aren't...

The Dallas Cowboys have several rookies making serious noise after their first preseason game, and a few of them could be forcing their way into much bigger roles than expected heading into the 2026 NFL season. Mauricio Rodriguez breaks down three Cowboys rookies who are exceeding expectations so far Jaishawn Barham, Michael Trigg and Camden Brown along with two rookies who may need more time before making the impact Dallas originally hoped for. Jaishawn Barham might be the most important name on the entire list. The rookie linebacker has already worked with the Cowboys' first-team defense during training camp, and defensive coordinator Christian Parker appears to have a clear vision for how Barham can be used. His versatility could allow Dallas to move him around the defense as an off-ball linebacker, edge defender, coverage player and interior pass rusher depending on the package. Then there's Michael Trigg. The undrafted rookie tight end impressed in the Cowboys' preseason opener against the Seattle Seahawks, catching four passes for 30 yards while also showing encouraging ability as a blocker. Trigg's emergence creates an interesting question for the Cowboys' 53-man roster especially with Luke Schoonmaker competing for his place in a tight end room that also features Jake Ferguson and Brevyn Spann-Ford. Could Trigg actually force Dallas into a difficult roster decision? Camden Brown is making an equally surprising push at wide receiver. The undrafted rookie out of Georgia Southern has consistently made plays during Cowboys training camp and then delivered when the lights came on, scoring two touchdowns against Seattle. His ability to contribute on special teams could make his roster case even stronger. Not every Cowboys rookie is ahead of schedule, though. First-round rookie Malachi Lawrence showed flashes in his preseason debut, particularly with his motor and ability to create pressure, but Mauricio explains why his technique and footwork suggest Cowboys fans may need to be patient with his development. Fourth-round offensive tackle Drew Shelton also appears to need additional development before he's physically ready for a major NFL role, although Dallas has already experimented with moving him around the offensive line. Which Cowboys rookies are ready to contribute immediately, and which ones need more time? Mauricio Rodriguez breaks down five rookies whose stock is beginning to take shape as the Cowboys move deeper into the 2026 preseason. Subscribe to A to Z Sports Dallas for daily Dallas Cowboys news, analysis, roster battles, training camp updates and reaction throughout the 2026 NFL season. 0:00 Cowboys rookies exceeding expectations 0:25 Jaishawn Barham's role is growing 2:10 Michael Trigg is putting pressure on the TE room 4:39 Camden Brown keeps making plays 5:57 Which rookies need more time? 6:08 Malachi Lawrence needs patience 8:49 Drew Shelton has work to do Play A to Z Sports Daily Games: For more Cowboys coverage be sure to follow here: Twitter: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: #DallasCowboys #Cowboys #CowboysNation #NFL #Dallas