Confident Cowboys Jalen Tolbert: 'I've Taken A Big Leap!'

Dallas Cowboys receiver Jalen Tolbert endured a poor rookie campaign, but as he enters Year 2, he has caught the eye of everyone in Oxnard with his impressive showings.

We hear a lot of coaches talk about the "second-year leap" for players, and one guy who embodies that right now is Dallas Cowboys receiver Jalen Tolbert. 

After a rookie season from (relative) hell, Tolbert set about working on his craft, and the difference in the former South Alabama star has been noticeable as he has been showing out consistently in Oxnard.

Speaking in the lead-up to the Cowboys' first preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars (4 p.m. Saturday at AT&T Stadium), Tolbert feels his confidence level has allowed him to become a better receiver.

“Obviously, you always have room to grow and improve as a wide receiver,” Tolbert said. “I feel like I’ve taken a big leap as far as confidence, route running, and being able to go to multiple spots and play comfortable. ... my comfort level is day-and-night (different).''

Said offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer: "I see a guy who's figured it out.''

If only we could bottle that thing they call confidence, huh?

But Tolbert didn't get to be the player he is now on his own ...vhe had help.

The Cowboys acquired Brandin Cooks via trade from the Houston Texans, and from every corner of The Star, the words coming out about what Cooks has done for the receiver room have been glowing ... and Tolbert can attest to that.

Cooks has taken the young receiver under his wing and taught him the ropes of what it means to be an NFL-caliber receiver, and Tolbert knows that Cooks' involvement has been a big factor in his newfound confidence on the field.

“Brandin coming in played a big part in that,” Tolbert said. “Actually trained with him for a week in Oregon, where he lives, and just understand why he’s so successful. Having a guy like that to teach you and mentor you on growing through the NFL and as a receiver is special. Having him in this room is awesome.”

After many counted him out after his rookie season, Tolbert is back with a vengeance and a swagger not seen in his time with the Cowboys.

Of course, this hasn't been seen in a real NFL game situation, but we won't have to wait too long to see how Tolbert's newfound confidence translates onto the field as he is expected to see some action vs. the Jaguars.

"I'm excited to go out and continue to get better, and continue to compete, and show my improvement from last season," Tolbert said. "I'm ready to go out and have fun with my brothers."

With so many impressive moments thus far during training camp, Tolbert can rubber-stamp them and even lock down the WR4 spot with a good body of work in the Cowboys upcoming preseason games.

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