(Editor's Note: Who doesn't love lists? Throughout training camp, 'High 5' will provide a top five list for many of the critical topics surrounding the Dallas Cowboys 2024 preseason.)
Prior to Sunday's preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams, the Dallas Cowboys have released their first unofficial depth chart of the season.
The first depth chart is always an interesting document to dissect. It's the first tangible look at this year's roster and how things are shaking out after the first few weeks of training camp in Oxnard. Additionally, it's helpful when sorting out how rookies and first-year Cowboys are fitting into their new digs.
While much of the depth chart is as anticipated, there are still a few surprises to sort through. Here are the top five observations from the Cowboys first unofficial depth chart:
5. John Stephens listed as the fourth tight end
It's tough to really get a good look at the tight end position until the pads come on. So the best evaluation for the position has come over the last week and a half. During that time, it's been a fierce battle behind Jake Ferguson and Luke Schoonmaker for what could be the final spot or two on the roster. Peyton Hendershot and John Stephens are the front runners, and depending on who you ask, possibly fighting each other for a spot on the team. Right now, it's Hendershot that has the edge.
4. Jalen Cropper ahead of Tyron Billy-Johnson at wide receiver
Reading through the headlines and analysis from Cowboys training camp would probably make someone think Tyron Billy-Johnson is destined for a roster spot. It appears he still has some work to do. He's listed behind KaVontae Turpin and Jalen Brooks, which isn't a massive shock. But he's also behind Jalen Cropper who has pieced together a fantastic week of practice himself. This is a battle for the sixth wide receiver spot that will truly ramp up in the upcoming preseason games.
3. Tyler Guyton is the backup at left tackle
As camp continues, Guyton will have every opportunity to overtake Chuma Edoga at the left tackle spot. But the amount of practice time missed by both players has made it tough to get a true look at the position battle. In limited reps, Guyton has looked better than Edoga, but Edoga has been more available than the first-round pick. That's probably a big reason he remains as the first team left tackle at the moment.
2. Micah Parsons listed as defensive end
For years, Micah Parsons has been listed as a linebacker despite playing most of his defensive snaps as a defensive end. This season, it's anticipated that he'll play more off-ball linebacker under Mike Zimmer's new scheme, yet Parsons is finally listed as a defensive end. Is this a true indication of how he's used on defense? Not really. Parsons could be anywhere on the field at any time. But the timing of the "position switch" is fun to speculate about.
1. Marist Liufau tabbed as first-team linebacker
The only rookie to crack the first team in the debut depth chart is Marist Liufau. He has earned plenty of buzz over the last few weeks in Oxnard, with coaches and peers praising his football IQ and quickness. The third-round rookie has rotated in that starting rotation with Eric Kendricks and Damone Clark over the last few practices. If he can continue to impress the coaching staff and make plays like he has in Oxnard, he could be a massive addition to Mike Zimmer's defensive unit.
