Happy Camper: Cowboys Jalen Tolbert 'Figuring it Out' in Oxnard

The Dallas Cowboys have receiver Jalen Tolbert taking a step up toward winning the WR4 position.

After a rather underwhelming rookie season, Dallas Cowboys receiver Jalen Tolbert knew the work that was ahead of him. Entering the offseason, many weren't sure what to expect coming into OTAs and minicamp from the former South Alabama star.

Well, now we know. Tolbert has turned the corner.

Everything coming out of Dallas has been positive for Tolbert as his offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer stated that his receiver has now "figured it out," as he has had several training camp flashes and noted how impressive his "notebook" is as Tolbert has locked in mentally to the task that is in front to him.

The second-year receiver is now oozing a confidence not seen during his time in Dallas, and his play on the practice field is collaborating with that. Sure hands (a one-handed catch as well), decisive, crisp routes, and his ability to make plays when given the chance have seen Tolbert receive many plaudits thus far. ... And rightly so.

Jalen Tolbert pic.twitter.com/vtaNA1mQ8u

— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 29, 2023

At the beginning of OTAs, the WR4 battle was between Tolbert and Simi Fehoko, and now - even with Simi having a good Monday in pads - we say Tolbert has taken the lead. 

With quarterback Dak Prescott detailing the growth in Tolbert's game and the mental improvement of his receiver since last season, the Cowboys might finally be ready to see the best of him. Of course, Tolbert has had some help.

Veteran receiver Brandin Cooks, who was acquired via trade from the Houston Texans, has been a valuable source for the receiver.

"We go eat, talk ball, we work out together, all the little things," Tolbert said back in June. "He's been in the league for a while, and he's had six 1,000-yard seasons. We talk, and he sees in me what I see as well, and he told me 'I'm gonna look out for you.'"

It might only be early in training camp, but Tolbert is starting to become everything the Cowboys thought he would be when they drafted him. That doesn't make him a CeeDee Lamb. But it does make him a "non-bust.''

It's taken time, but perhaps Tolbert's flashes in the Oxnard sun are proving that he's ready for a bigger role for the Cowboys this season.

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