Dallas Cowboys rookie sensation ready to step up in major role

Caelen Carson is being thrust into the spotlight as a rookie, but the Dallas Cowboys cornerback is 'ready' to prove his preseason and training camp wasn't a fluke.

Aug 11, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Xavier Smith (19) is pushed out of bounds by Dallas Cowboys cornerback Caelen Carson (41) during the first half at SoFi Stadium. / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

When news surfaced that All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland would miss six to eight weeks with a foot injury and surgery, there was a lot of understandable concern in Dallas Cowboys Nation.

However, those concerns were eased by rookie cornerback Caelen Carson, who has been a standout for the team throughout training camp and the NFL preseason.

Carson, the team's fifth-round pick out of Wake Forest, will now be forced into a starting role, but that's something he has ready for.

As the man known as "Seatbelt" says, he's been preparing for this moment his entire life.

MORE: Caelen Carson debuts new No. 21 jersey at Cowboys practice; explains change

"I'm more than prepared," the 22-year-old Carson said, via DallasCowboys.com. "I wouldn't say that I expected it, but I'm ready. … If you make it bigger than what it is, then it's gonna be a big moment for you. It's gonna be [like] any other game.

"I've been playing football all my life, so I feel like nothing changes. It's just more people and you're on television but, at the end of the day, I've been doing it since I was five years old."

Carson is approaching the season with the right mindset and approach. It's especially impressive to see that confidence from a rookie who is stepping into a big role.

Jun 5, 2024; Frisco, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Caelen Carson (41) goes through a drill during practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility in Frisco, Texas. / Chris Jones-USA TODAY Sports

He added, "It's the opportunity of a lifetime. You wait for this moment as a child, and it just happens to be my first game. I greatly appreciate it and I'm blessed to be in this position."

We'll find out what he brings to the table in the regular season in less than one week.

Dallas will kick off its 2024 campaign on Sunday, September 8, on the road against the Cleveland Browns. Tom Brady will be making his broadcasting debut for the game on FOX.

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