After more than three weeks of intense training in Oxnard, California, the Dallas Cowboys are returning to Texas, ready to gear up for the 2025 season. Although two preseason games remain, many players have already proven their worth, signaling a promising year ahead. Here are the five biggest winners from Cowboys training camp, who have made a strong impression on the coaching staff and their teammates.
1. Kaiir Elam: The “Diamond in the Rough” Ready to Shine on Defense
Perhaps no player helped their stock more than Kaiir Elam. While the Cowboys’ front office was bullish on the former first-round pick, there were still questions about how he would perform once the pads came on. Elam answered those questions with a resounding performance, showing he can be a starting outside cornerback.
His strong play against top talents like CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens was particularly impressive. With this performance, his starting spot is likely solidified for the season. Even when Trevon Diggs returns, Elam can hold his position, and the team can move DaRon Bland to the slot.
2. Donovan Ezeiruaku: The Future “Pass-Rushing Monster”
The Cowboys’ second-round rookie, Donovan Ezeiruaku, has lived up to the hype. While his run defense needs improvement, Ezeiruaku is a game-ready pass rusher. His technique consistently gave the team’s tackles trouble in practice. The Boston College product showed exactly why he was a high draft pick.
Even if he doesn’t start the season, Ezeiruaku is going to get his snaps, especially on passing downs. He’s a player who will be a key contributor to the Cowboys’ defensive line rotation.
3. George Pickens: A “Professional Transformation”
George Pickens showed off his ability to make spectacular catches and had a great day against the Los Angeles Rams in a joint practice. However, that was expected. The most encouraging aspect of Pickens’s camp was his newfound focus and professionalism.
Coaches and players have praised Pickens’s locked-in attitude, putting to bed the nightmare stories from his time in Pittsburgh. A colleague who covers the Steelers even texted a clip from practice, saying, “I never saw Pickens block like that in Pittsburgh.” While it’s too early to say if this change is permanent, his current mindset is a positive and crucial development for the team.
4. KaVontae Turpin: The Offense’s “Secret Weapon”
All-Pro returner KaVontae Turpin is set to become more than just a special teams player for the Cowboys in 2025. Based on training camp practices, Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer plans to use him more frequently out of the backfield and as a wide receiver. While he won’t be a traditional “No. 3 receiver,” Turpin is expected to have a much bigger role in the offense this year. With the three-year, $18 million deal he signed in March, it looks like Dallas got great value.
5. Jaydon Blue: The “Explosive Engine” at Running Back
While Jaydon Blue’s training camp ended on a sour note due to a heel injury, it was a successful camp overall. Blue established himself as the team’s third running back at a minimum and even got first-team reps before his injury. He showcased an explosiveness and acceleration that no other player on the team possesses. Despite his injury potentially sidelining him for the upcoming preseason game, his role in the regular season is certain to be significant.
The training camp in Oxnard concluded with a lot of positive takeaways for the Dallas Cowboys. The standout performances from Kaiir Elam, Donovan Ezeiruaku, George Pickens, KaVontae Turpin, and Jaydon Blue not only provide hope but also hint at the team’s explosive potential for the upcoming season. With these players stepping up, the Cowboys are entering the preseason with a renewed sense of confidence, ready to compete for their big goals.