Sports & Competition
Thu, July 31, 2025
[ Today @ 03:29 PM ]: Forbes
[ Today @ 03:10 PM ]: WJET Erie
[ Today @ 03:09 PM ]: KSTP-TV
[ Today @ 02:50 PM ]: The Sporting News
[ Today @ 02:49 PM ]: OneFootball
[ Today @ 01:29 PM ]: The Chelsea News
[ Today @ 01:11 PM ]: WHTM
[ Today @ 01:10 PM ]: Patriots Wire
[ Today @ 12:49 PM ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Today @ 12:09 PM ]: The New York Times
[ Today @ 11:49 AM ]: Jaguars Wire
[ Today @ 11:29 AM ]: Forbes
[ Today @ 11:09 AM ]: Athlon Sports
[ Today @ 11:09 AM ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Today @ 10:28 AM ]: Times West Virginian, Fairmont
[ Today @ 10:08 AM ]: Sporting News
[ Today @ 09:49 AM ]: Colts Wire
[ Today @ 09:08 AM ]: WMUR
[ Today @ 08:49 AM ]: Jaguars Wire
[ Today @ 08:08 AM ]: Giants Wire
[ Today @ 07:49 AM ]: The 19th News
[ Today @ 07:48 AM ]: The New York Times
[ Today @ 07:28 AM ]: Yen.com.gh
[ Today @ 06:49 AM ]: Forbes
[ Today @ 06:48 AM ]: Reuters
[ Today @ 04:29 AM ]: Sporting News
[ Today @ 03:49 AM ]: Fortune
[ Today @ 02:31 AM ]: KSNF Joplin
[ Today @ 02:29 AM ]: KETK Tyler
[ Today @ 02:29 AM ]: WMBD Peoria
[ Today @ 02:09 AM ]: WHIO
[ Today @ 01:50 AM ]: Sporting News
[ Today @ 01:49 AM ]: The New York Times
[ Today @ 01:28 AM ]: thetimes.com
[ Today @ 12:09 AM ]: KLFY Lafayette
Wed, July 30, 2025
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Deseret News
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Fox 11 News
[ Yesterday Evening ]: The Sporting News
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Sporting News
[ Yesterday Evening ]: KTSM
[ Yesterday Evening ]: profootballnetwork.com
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Sporting News
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Columbia Basin Herald, Moses Lake, Wash.
[ Yesterday Evening ]: deseret
[ Yesterday Evening ]: Eagles Wire
[ Yesterday Evening ]: rnz
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Reality Tea
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Colts Wire
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: People
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Athlon Sports
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Talksport
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Sporting News
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Auburn Wire
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Parade
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Panthers Wire
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: profootballnetwork.com
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Associated Press
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: WSAV Savannah
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: KSNT Topeka
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Forbes
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: The New York Times
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Eagles Wire
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: moneycontrol.com
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: FanSided
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: SB Nation
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: The Hockey News
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: The Clarion-Ledger
[ Yesterday Afternoon ]: Forbes
[ Yesterday Morning ]: GamesRadar+
[ Yesterday Morning ]: WGME
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Giants Wire
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Eagles Wire
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Sportico
[ Yesterday Morning ]: TheNewsCenter
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Chiefs Wire
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The Sports Rush
[ Yesterday Morning ]: reuters.com
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Commanders Wire
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Forbes
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The Football Faithful
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The Courier-Journal
[ Yesterday Morning ]: SB Nation
[ Yesterday Morning ]: reuters.com
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The Scotsman
[ Yesterday Morning ]: reuters.com
[ Yesterday Morning ]: 7News Miami
[ Yesterday Morning ]: SB Nation
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The Financial Times
[ Yesterday Morning ]: The New York Times
[ Yesterday Morning ]: BBC
[ Yesterday Morning ]: BBC
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Fox 11 News
[ Yesterday Morning ]: Athlon Sports
[ Yesterday Morning ]: BBC
Tue, July 29, 2025
[ Last Tuesday ]: Longhorns Wire
[ Last Tuesday ]: The Daily Republic, Mitchell, S.D.
[ Last Tuesday ]: Pharos-Tribune, Logansport, Ind.
[ Last Tuesday ]: Leader-Telegram, Eau Claire, Wis.
[ Last Tuesday ]: Patriots Wire
[ Last Tuesday ]: Cleveland.com
[ Last Tuesday ]: KREX articles
[ Last Tuesday ]: Chicago Tribune
[ Last Tuesday ]: Fox News
[ Last Tuesday ]: Forbes
[ Last Tuesday ]: Fox 11 News
[ Last Tuesday ]: syracuse.com
[ Last Tuesday ]: USA TODAY
[ Last Tuesday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Tuesday ]: ESPN
[ Last Tuesday ]: WTNH Hartford
[ Last Tuesday ]: Southern Minn
[ Last Tuesday ]: Chowhound
[ Last Tuesday ]: Colts Wire
[ Last Tuesday ]: MassLive
[ Last Tuesday ]: Fox News
[ Last Tuesday ]: IndieWire
[ Last Tuesday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Tuesday ]: BBC
[ Last Tuesday ]: Associated Press
[ Last Tuesday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Tuesday ]: The Irish News
[ Last Tuesday ]: Athlon Sports
[ Last Tuesday ]: Forbes
[ Last Tuesday ]: Madrid Universal
[ Last Tuesday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Tuesday ]: WLNS Lansing
[ Last Tuesday ]: WBAY
[ Last Tuesday ]: BBC
[ Last Tuesday ]: Barca Universal
[ Last Tuesday ]: WGME
[ Last Tuesday ]: BBC
[ Last Tuesday ]: WCJB
[ Last Tuesday ]: HuffPost
[ Last Tuesday ]: EPL Index
[ Last Tuesday ]: Athlon Sports
[ Last Tuesday ]: Deadline
[ Last Tuesday ]: Fox 11 News
[ Last Tuesday ]: The Hollywood Reporter
[ Last Tuesday ]: The Independent
[ Last Tuesday ]: Democrat and Chronicle
[ Last Tuesday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Tuesday ]: WGME
[ Last Tuesday ]: WSPA Spartanburg
[ Last Tuesday ]: WFMZ-TV
[ Last Tuesday ]: The New York Times
[ Last Tuesday ]: WCMH
Mon, July 28, 2025
[ Last Monday ]: OneFootball
[ Last Monday ]: WVNS Bluefield
[ Last Monday ]: WCIA Champaign
[ Last Monday ]: Post-Bulletin, Rochester, Minn.
[ Last Monday ]: The Sun
[ Last Monday ]: The Sporting News
[ Last Monday ]: KREX articles
[ Last Monday ]: POWDER Magazine
[ Last Monday ]: sportskeeda.com
[ Last Monday ]: syracuse.com
[ Last Monday ]: WGME
[ Last Monday ]: The Hollywood Reporter
[ Last Monday ]: Celtics Wire
[ Last Monday ]: AtoZ Sports
[ Last Monday ]: The Indianapolis Star
[ Last Monday ]: WHTM
[ Last Monday ]: Fox Sports
[ Last Monday ]: Daytime Confidential
[ Last Monday ]: The New York Times
[ Last Monday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Monday ]: Parents
[ Last Monday ]: The Motley Fool
[ Last Monday ]: Cardinals Wire
[ Last Monday ]: Bears Wire
[ Last Monday ]: on3.com
[ Last Monday ]: Cleveland.com
[ Last Monday ]: NBC Sports Philadelphia
[ Last Monday ]: LA Times
[ Last Monday ]: Forbes
[ Last Monday ]: BBC
[ Last Monday ]: Stretty News
[ Last Monday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Monday ]: The New York Times
[ Last Monday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Monday ]: BBC
[ Last Monday ]: KHON Honolulu
[ Last Monday ]: The Straits Times
Dynamic Cowboys UDFA makes mark on WR competition with spectacular TD
//sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. -mark-on-wr-competition-with-spectacular-td.html
Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, July 30th 2025 at 21:48 GMT by Sports Illustrated🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Traeshon Holden received a lot of hype during OTAs, and the UDFA reminded everyone why he could be a player to watch out for.
Dynamic Dallas Cowboys UDFA Makes His Mark in WR Competition with Spectacular TD
In the sweltering heat of Oxnard, California, where the Dallas Cowboys are grinding through their annual training camp, a new name is starting to buzz among fans and analysts alike. Undrafted free agent wide receiver Jalen Cropper, a speedy and agile talent out of Fresno State, has been turning heads with his explosive plays and unyielding determination. But it was one particular moment—a spectacular touchdown catch during a recent practice session—that has elevated his status from a long-shot roster hopeful to a legitimate contender in what is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive wide receiver room for America's Team.
The Cowboys' wide receiver corps has long been a point of strength, anchored by stars like CeeDee Lamb, who continues to establish himself as one of the league's elite pass-catchers. Lamb's contract situation has dominated headlines this offseason, with ongoing negotiations creating some uncertainty. Yet, beneath the surface, the team is quietly building depth, especially after parting ways with veteran Michael Gallup and relying on the emergence of younger talents like Jalen Tolbert and Brandin Cooks to complement Lamb's production. Enter Cropper, the undrafted gem who slipped through the cracks of the 2023 NFL Draft but landed a coveted invite to Dallas' rookie minicamp. His journey to this point is a classic underdog story, one that resonates deeply in a league where opportunity often knocks for those willing to seize it.
Cropper's collegiate career at Fresno State was marked by flashes of brilliance. Over four seasons, he amassed impressive yardage and touchdowns, showcasing his ability to stretch the field with his 4.4-second 40-yard dash speed and precise route-running. However, concerns about his size—at 5-foot-11 and around 170 pounds—and a crowded draft class for wideouts meant he went unselected. Undeterred, Cropper signed with the Cowboys as a UDFA, joining a group that includes other intriguing prospects like David Durden and Racey McMath, all vying for limited spots on the 53-man roster. The competition is intense; with established players like KaVontae Turpin providing return specialist value and Tolbert looking to build on his sophomore season, every rep in camp counts.
It was during a red-zone drill in the team's latest padded practice that Cropper made his defining play. Quarterback Dak Prescott, fresh off a strong showing in joint practices with the Los Angeles Rams, dropped back under simulated pressure. With defenders swarming, Prescott lofted a perfectly placed fade route into the corner of the end zone. Cropper, matched up against a veteran cornerback, exploded off the line, created separation with a subtle head fake, and elevated over the defender for a one-handed snag that left onlookers in awe. The catch wasn't just athletic; it was a statement of intent, drawing cheers from teammates and a nod of approval from head coach Mike McCarthy.
"That was a heck of a grab," Prescott commented post-practice, his words carrying weight as the franchise quarterback. "Jalen's been putting in the work since day one. Plays like that show why he's here and why he's pushing everyone around him to be better." McCarthy echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the importance of competition in elevating the entire unit. "We're not handing out spots; you have to earn them. Cropper's dynamism is exactly what we need—speed, hands, and that fearless mentality. It's early, but he's making it hard to ignore him."
This spectacular TD isn't an isolated incident. Throughout camp, Cropper has consistently impressed with his quickness in and out of breaks, his ability to track the ball in traffic, and his willingness to contribute on special teams. In one-on-one drills, he's gone toe-to-toe with the likes of Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland, the Cowboys' shutdown corner duo, holding his own and even winning a few battles. His route tree versatility—capable of running deep posts, slants, and screens—fits seamlessly into offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer's scheme, which emphasizes getting the ball to playmakers in space. Analysts have noted that Cropper's style draws comparisons to former Cowboys speedster Tavon Austin, though with potentially more upside in the passing game.
The broader context of the Cowboys' offseason adds layers to Cropper's emergence. Dallas is coming off a disappointing playoff exit against the Green Bay Packers, where offensive inconsistencies plagued the team despite a 12-5 regular season record. Owner Jerry Jones has been vocal about the need for more weapons around Prescott, especially with Lamb's holdout looming as a potential distraction. While the team didn't make splashy moves in free agency for receivers, focusing instead on bolstering the offensive line and defense, the UDFA route has proven fruitful in the past. Remember, players like Miles Austin and Cole Beasley rose from undrafted obscurity to become key contributors in Dallas. Cropper could follow in those footsteps, providing cost-effective depth and injecting youthful energy into a veteran-laden roster.
Beyond his on-field exploits, Cropper's intangibles are winning over the locker room. Teammates describe him as a tireless worker, often the first in the facility and the last to leave. His backstory adds to the allure: growing up in California's Central Valley, he overcame personal challenges, including a family relocation and the rigors of balancing academics with athletics. At Fresno State, under coaches like Jeff Tedford, he learned the value of preparation and resilience—lessons that are paying dividends now. "I've always bet on myself," Cropper said in a brief media availability. "Being undrafted lit a fire under me. Every day is an audition, and I'm here to prove I belong."
As training camp progresses toward preseason games, the wide receiver competition will only intensify. The Cowboys open their exhibition slate against the Rams, providing Cropper with a prime opportunity to showcase his skills in live action. A strong performance could solidify his case for a practice squad spot or even the active roster, especially if injuries arise or if the team decides to carry an extra receiver for special teams versatility. Fans are already speculating on social media, with hashtags like #CropperSZN gaining traction. Could this UDFA be the next diamond in the rough for Dallas?
Looking ahead, the implications of Cropper's rise extend to the Cowboys' overall strategy. In a salary-cap constrained era, finding value in undrafted players allows the front office to allocate resources elsewhere, perhaps toward extending Lamb or addressing needs at running back after Tony Pollard's departure. If Cropper continues to dazzle, he might force tough decisions, potentially pushing out a veteran or altering trade considerations. McCarthy has stressed a merit-based approach: "The best players will play, regardless of draft status." For Cropper, that philosophy is music to his ears.
In the grand tapestry of NFL training camps, stories like Cropper's are what make the preseason so captivating. They remind us that talent can emerge from anywhere, that a single spectacular play can change trajectories. As the Cowboys chase another NFC East title and a deeper playoff run, keep an eye on this dynamic UDFA. His mark on the WR competition is just beginning, and if that touchdown is any indication, it could be the start of something special in Big D.
(Word count: 1,048)
Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/nfl/cowboys/news/dynamic-dallas-cowboys-udfa-makes-mark-wr-competition-spectacular-td ]
Similar Sports and Competition Publications
[ Last Tuesday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Monday ]: AtoZ Sports
[ Last Monday ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Last Sunday ]: Sporting News
[ Last Friday ]: Cardinals Wire
[ Thu, Jul 24th ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Thu, Jul 24th ]: SB Nation
[ Wed, Jul 23rd ]: The New York Times
[ Wed, Jul 23rd ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Wed, Jul 23rd ]: Sports Illustrated
[ Fri, Jul 18th ]: The Sporting News
