Cowboys Preview: Top 8 to Watch in Opener At Rams

The Dallas Cowboys are set to begin their 2024 preseason with a matchup against the Los Angeles Rams, offering a crucial opportunity for players to prove themselves and secure their spots on the final roster.

For fans and coaches alike, here are the key offensive and defensive areas to watch during this important preseason opener.

Offensive Positions

1 - On offense, Job 1 is about Trey Lance. Can he win the No. 2 QB? Can he play a lick He calls this a "big game'' for his career. He's right. See below.

Related: Cowboys at Rams: What 'Big Game' Means to Trey Lance

2 - Also, one of the most anticipated aspects will be the performance of the Cowboys' wide receivers. With CeeDee Lamb holding out and Brandin Cooks already established as a veteran presence, younger players led by Jalen Tolbert will be in the summer spotlight.

Tolbert is likely the No. 3 guy. After him? Jalen Brooks and Tyron Billy-Johnson are among those who will be in the fight.

Tolbert, now entering his third season, aims to secure a starting role, while Brooks and rookie Ryan Flournoy are fighting for roster spots or expanded roles within the offense.

Their ability to produce against the Rams’ secondary could significantly influence their future with the team.

3 - Another critical focus will be on the offensive line, particularly the development of rookies Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe . Guyton, who has shown promise but was slowed by illness, would if healthy be expected to see considerable action at left tackle. Beebe, a third-round pick, will be evaluated on his snapping skills and his capability to handle the Rams' defensive front. ... though he's also playing some guard.

Their performances in this game will be key as the Cowboys look to solidify their offensive line rotation ahead of the regular season.

4 - Additionally, the running back rotation will be a crucial element to monitor. While Ezekiel Elliott is listed as the starter, he is likely to watch. Rico Dowdle is the No. 2 guy. And fullback Hunter Luepke seems in. After that? Malik Davis, Deuce Vaughn, and Royce Freeman will spent time in a battle for the final roster spots. Injuries have impacted Vaughn and Freeman, a pivotal factor in the competition for a place on the team.

Defensive Positions

5 - On the defensive side, Mazi Smith’s performance is being closely watched. The Cowboys’ first-round pick from last year is eager to showcase his offseason progress after a rookie season that did not meet expectations. This summer provides Smith with a platform to demonstrate his improved technique, strength, and overall impact as a disruptive force on the defensive line.

6 - The linebacker position also presents a significant area of interest, particularly with rookie Marist Liufau . A third-round pick, Liufau has impressed in training camp with his ability to quickly diagnose plays. His performance against the Rams will be critical in determining whether he can translate his practice success into game action and secure a starting role.

7 - Additionally, the return of DeMarvion Overshown is highly anticipated - maybe today? - as he makes his comeback from a season-ending ACL injury suffered during his rookie year. Overshown has looked really good in camp, drawing numerous comments from coaches and peers alike for his impressive recovery and on-field performance.

How Overshown performs in his return will be crucial in assessing his readiness and impact on the linebacker corps.

Related: Cowboys 53-Man Roster Prediction: Preseason Moves Coming?

8 - Lastly, the secondary will be under the microscope, with rookie cornerback Caelen Carson expected to draw attention. Carson has been a standout in camp, showing strong coverage skills and recording an interception against the Rams in a joint practice. His ability to maintain that level of play in the preseason game will be key to earning a spot on the final roster.

As the preseason unfolds, the performances in these key areas will not only determine roster spots but also set the tone for how the Cowboys approach their early regular-season matchups. Coaches and fans alike will be closely watching to see which players step up and solidify their roles on the team.