Elusive Talent Eyes Special Teams Role Amidst Receiver Room Questions
Dallas secured Anthony Smith, a wide receiver from East Carolina, with their seventh-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Smith brings a touted combination of 'see-ya speed' and playmaking ability, with scouts highlighting his elite speed and explosiveness. He was clocked at a 4.40 40-yard dash, underscoring his capability as a 'straight-line burner' and 'vertical weapon'.
Smith's college production includes 118 catches for 2,095 yards and 16 touchdowns over a six-year career. In his two seasons at ECU, he amassed 1,852 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, averaging 18 yards per reception. His skillset is described as having the ability to stress safeties, force corners to turn and run, and open up space underneath.
While Smith possesses impressive deep speed and demonstrated body control to make difficult catches, his game isn't without areas for refinement. Scouts note that his slimmer build can lead to issues with physical defenders closing in on shorter routes, particularly curl or stop routes. He will need to improve his route-running precision and hip sink to gain separation against NFL-level defenders.
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The Cowboys' receiver room behind established players like CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens is considered unsettled, offering an opportunity for newcomers. Smith's potential contributions are seen extending beyond offense, with a strong emphasis on his ability to contribute on special teams. His game-breaking speed and willingness to play on special teams are considered key factors for his integration into the squad.
Other New Faces and Existing Dynamics
The Cowboys also added receiver Jordan Hudson as an undrafted free agent. Hudson, a playmaker from SMU, is noted for his consistency and competitiveness but needs to prove his ability to create professional-level throwing windows. The team also added tight end D.J. Rogers.
Existing receivers on the roster include KaVontae Turpin, with a career total of 556 receiving yards, and Jonathan Mingo, who is currently on the injured reserve list. George Pickens is described as a potentially disruptive force who may thrive in the right environment, despite having only one season exceeding 1,000 receiving yards.
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Oregon's Traeshon Holden, another receiver option, is noted for his urgency in getting into routes but faces challenges in getting off press coverage and slipping man coverage. Holden aims to prove doubters wrong after being passed over in the draft.
