The Dallas Cowboys have an opportunity to address a glaring weakness in their roster. Outside of CeeDee Lamb, the Cowboys lack significant firepower at the wide receiver position. This deficiency has led fans to prefer Cooper Rush targeting Lamb and tight end Jake Ferguson almost exclusively.
Currently, Lamb and Ferguson stand out as the only truly dynamic pass-catchers on the team. While Brandin Cooks has managed two touchdowns in as many games since returning from injured reserve, he is no longer the deep threat he was in his prime. Additionally, he struggles to create separation on intermediate routes.
As for Jalen Tolbert, patience among the fanbase is wearing thin. Though he made a crucial game-winning touchdown catch against the Steelers and has delivered in sporadic moments, his consistency leaves much to be desired. His 58.6 receiving grade ranks 90th out of 98 qualified receivers, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF).
Looking ahead to 2025, the Cowboys would benefit from reducing Tolbert’s role and giving more opportunities to younger players like Jonathan Mingo and Ryan Flournoy. At the same time, the front office should actively explore the waiver wire for potential depth options—a search that has yielded an intriguing opportunity from an unexpected source.
Cowboys Should Target K.J. Osborn on Waivers
Wide receiver K.J. Osborn recently became available after a mutual parting of ways with the New England Patriots. Osborn, who had been a healthy scratch in four of the last five games, expressed frustration with his limited role. Now, the 27-year-old has a chance to join a new team for the final stretch of the season.
Osborn signed a one-year, $4 million contract with the Patriots in March, hoping to secure a prominent role in their offense. However, with New England shifting its focus to developing younger players and handing the reins of the offense to rookie quarterback Drake Maye mid-season, Osborn found himself sidelined.
Despite his recent struggles, Osborn’s track record suggests he has plenty to offer. Drafted in the fifth round by the Minnesota Vikings in 2020, he emerged as a reliable third option in their offense. In 2021, Osborn recorded 50 receptions for 655 yards and seven touchdowns. Over the following two seasons, he demonstrated consistency, catching 108 passes for 1,190 yards and eight scores.
Osborn’s skill set includes reliable hands and a willingness to contribute as a blocker, making him an appealing depth option with upside. His potential role with the Cowboys could be significant, especially considering the likelihood of roster changes next season. Cooks is unlikely to return in 2025, and Tolbert’s future with the team is uncertain. While Mingo and Flournoy are expected to remain on the roster, neither should rank higher than fourth on the depth chart heading into the offseason.
Assuming Dallas addresses the need for a strong No. 2 receiver through the draft or free agency, Osborn could slot in as a dependable WR3. This, of course, depends on his performance over the final four games of the season, but his track record suggests he is worth the gamble.
Osborn’s availability presents a golden opportunity for the Cowboys to improve their receiving corps. With his experience and versatility, he could provide immediate value and position himself as a key piece for the 2025 season. It’s a move Dallas should strongly consider.
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