The Dallas Cowboys‘ defense could use some sleeper picks from training camp to step up and play well.
This was one of the worst units in the NFL last season, leading to former defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus being fired. Christian Parker takes over the unit and has a projected five new starters entering the new season.
Dallas needs more depth at multiple positions, including cornerback. The NFL’s 32nd-ranked pass defense is desperate for talent to come in and take over some critical spots. An unlikely source might be the key on that side of the ball, as well as on special teams.
Cowboys Have Sleeper CB Stepping Up in Training Camp
GettyTOPSHOT – Colts players including cornerback Ameer Speed (C) celebrate winning the NFL American football match Indianapolis Colts vs New England Patriots at the Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt am Main, western Germany, on November 12, 2023. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP) (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)
ESPN Cowboys reporter Todd Archer took to X to share his major takeaways from the team’s training camp practice on Thursday. This week, one cornerback is starting out ahead of the rest and could be a player to watch.
“Under-radar CB to watch: Ameer Speed,” Archer said. “He has had a good few days, including a pick on a go ball in 1-on-1s from Sam Howell to Marquez Valdes-Scantling.”
The Cowboys are Speed’s sixth NFL team since joining the league in 2023. He’s played in 17 games with the New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears, and Houston Texans. In those games, he racked up 11 tackles and 1 tackle for loss.
During the spring, Speed played in the United Football League for the Houston Gamblers. In five matchups, he finished with 16 tackles and 2 pass breakups.
What Ameer Speed Can Bring to the Dallas Cowboys’ Defense in 2026
GettyDefensive back Ameer Speed #9 of the Georgia Bulldogs leaves the field at the conclusion of the G-Day spring game at Sanford Stadium on April 17, 2021 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
Cornerback is one of the most competitive positions on the Cowboys’ roster this season. Cobie Durant, DaRon Bland, Shavon Revel Jr., and rookie Devin Moore feel like the locks to make the 53-man roster.
Speed proved his coverage skills in the UFL and has appeared in multiple NFL games. He is more suited to help the Cowboys on special teams. If he can prove himself to be worthy of being a special teams ace, he’s got a chance to make the team.
Still, Speed went into training camp pretty low on the depth chart. Guys like Caelen Carson, Josh Butler, and Derion Kendrick were ahead of Speed early in the practices.
It’s becoming clear now that Speed isn’t messing around and has a legit shot to fight for a spot on the team. He will need to do more than just get an interception. To make this team, he will need to have multiple interceptions and prove he can tackle in the open field.
There are still over three weeks for Speed to solidify his spot on the roster. At the rate he is going, he has a real shot to pull off the upset of training camp.
Like HEAVY’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on HEAVY
The post Former UFL Standout Has Created Major Waves in Cowboys Camp appeared first on HEAVY.