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NFL minicamps are notorious sources of hype and overreaction. These pad-free practices go through the motions of training camp without adopting the contact or intensity. Despite this, they can provide good insight as to who is stepping up their development and what role they could potentially play on the team.
For the Dallas Cowboys in 2026, minicamp is a place where astute observers can see who is competing at what positions, but also see who is one the verge of possibly breaking out as a star. Ryan Flournoy, a third-year receiver out of SEMO, appears to be that budding star.
Given the voluntary nature of camp, George Pickens has predictably been a no-show. It’s opened up opportunities for Flournoy and the 26-year-old receiver is truly making the most of it. Reports from camp indicate Flournoy has been a top target of Dak Prescott. Coming off a 40-reception, 475-yard season, all indications are Flournoy is ready to blow previous career highs right out of the water.
Flournoy’s ability to now play outside and in the slot has increased his useability and upped his value on the offense. It makes him the definitive WR3 in 11 personnel and also the first alternate in case Ceedee Lamb or Pickens gets sidelined.
With two elite targets ahead of him on the depth chart, his ceiling is somewhat capped, but he’s one of the most talented WR3s in the NFL and his blocking ability makes him a valuable piece in almost any package Brian Schottenheimer rolls out.
As a former sixth-round pick, Flournoy has far exceeded draft expectations already. Rarely do sixth rounders from small football programs make such an impact in their second season. But last season may have only scratched the surface, and Flournoy may be on the path to stardom in 2026.
Given the Cowboys dependency on the offense, it’s good to have added insurance at the receiver position. If Lamb or Pickens miss time this year, Flournoy’s presence ensures the wheels don’t come off the bus.
It’s not hard to see possible roster ramifications if Flournoy sets another career high this season. Pickens, or possibly Lamb, could be deemed expendable next winter and traded away for draft picks and/or defensive help. Flournoy would plug into the starting lineup and give the Cowboys offense an affordable option at WR2. That might not be the roster move anyone wants to see but it would help the Dallas front office balance payroll across the offense and defense.
From short-term to long-term goals, news of Flournoy’s breakout is good news for the Cowboys.
You can follow Reid on X @ReidDHanson and be sure to follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!
This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys WR Ryan Flournoy going from humble beginnings to budding star
Continue reading...
For the Dallas Cowboys in 2026, minicamp is a place where astute observers can see who is competing at what positions, but also see who is one the verge of possibly breaking out as a star. Ryan Flournoy, a third-year receiver out of SEMO, appears to be that budding star.
Given the voluntary nature of camp, George Pickens has predictably been a no-show. It’s opened up opportunities for Flournoy and the 26-year-old receiver is truly making the most of it. Reports from camp indicate Flournoy has been a top target of Dak Prescott. Coming off a 40-reception, 475-yard season, all indications are Flournoy is ready to blow previous career highs right out of the water.
Flournoy’s ability to now play outside and in the slot has increased his useability and upped his value on the offense. It makes him the definitive WR3 in 11 personnel and also the first alternate in case Ceedee Lamb or Pickens gets sidelined.
With two elite targets ahead of him on the depth chart, his ceiling is somewhat capped, but he’s one of the most talented WR3s in the NFL and his blocking ability makes him a valuable piece in almost any package Brian Schottenheimer rolls out.
As a former sixth-round pick, Flournoy has far exceeded draft expectations already. Rarely do sixth rounders from small football programs make such an impact in their second season. But last season may have only scratched the surface, and Flournoy may be on the path to stardom in 2026.
Given the Cowboys dependency on the offense, it’s good to have added insurance at the receiver position. If Lamb or Pickens miss time this year, Flournoy’s presence ensures the wheels don’t come off the bus.
It’s not hard to see possible roster ramifications if Flournoy sets another career high this season. Pickens, or possibly Lamb, could be deemed expendable next winter and traded away for draft picks and/or defensive help. Flournoy would plug into the starting lineup and give the Cowboys offense an affordable option at WR2. That might not be the roster move anyone wants to see but it would help the Dallas front office balance payroll across the offense and defense.
From short-term to long-term goals, news of Flournoy’s breakout is good news for the Cowboys.
You can follow Reid on X @ReidDHanson and be sure to follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!
This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys WR Ryan Flournoy going from humble beginnings to budding star
Continue reading...
