FRISCO, Texas –A day after drafting Colorado State's Michael Gallup, the Cowboys added more veteran receiving depth by trading a sixth-round pick to the L.A. Rams for Tavon Austin.
Austin, a first-round pick by the Rams in 2013, has 194 career catches for 1,689 yards and 12 touchdowns in five NFL seasons. The Rams announced they received the No. 192 pick from Dallas in the trade.
Austin (5-9, 175 pounds), joins a crowded receiving group that includes Cole Beasley and last year's fourth-round pick Ryan Switzer. Both primarily play inside. But Austin also has 184 career rushing attempts, including 59 carries with 2 touchdowns last year. He could have a chance to earn a role as a change-of-pace player with a versatile skill set.
Clearly, the Cowboys are looking for more speed on offense. In March they signed veteran Deonte Thompson, a deep threat with kick return experience.
Allen Hurns, also signed in March, is another veteran receiver who will be asked to help replace Dez Bryant's production. The Cowboys released Bryant earlier this month after eight seasons with the team.
Gallup, the team's third-round pick, adds more competition to the group. He posted 21 touchdowns in two seasons as a starter for Colorado State.
