FRISCO, Texas – Antwaun Woods doesn't mind competition one bit.
Last year as an unheralded signing, Woods won a starting job in training camp and made 17 starts at nose tackle, including playoffs, as a valuable part of the Cowboys' fifth-ranked run defense.
This year, he's aware the Cowboys have added talent on the defensive line. Sixteen linemen are on the current roster and typically about 10 make the final cut after preseason.
"It's the name of the business: Every year they're trying to replace us. Every year they bring guys in to take our job," he said. "And it's what makes us better. Me, I want everybody to get better and I want everybody to try to take my position because at the end of the day it's only going to make me better and it's going to be real hard."
Woods had shoulder surgery early this offseason and is expected to return in training camp. He's looking forward to competing.
"I'm going to make it real hard for them to get me out of the building," he said.
Kitna Impressed With Dak
New quarterbacks coach Jon Kitna spent four seasons as a backup and part-time starter with the Cowboys a decade ago. He understands the demands of the position and the spotlight, particularly in this market.
That's just one of Dak Prescott's impressive traits, Kitna says.
"He's a rare individual from the physical standpoint, the mental standpoint, the experience standpoint, the leadership, on down the line," Kitna said. "Playing in Dallas and all that comes with being the quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys, he embraces all that. He doesn't shy away from it."
Cobb Settling In
Wide receiver Randall Cobb has been in the league nine years. He's been to the Pro Bowl. But just like any newcomer, learning the Cowboys' offense has been an adjustment.
After three weeks of OTAs, Cobb is seeing a difference in minicamp this week.
"Things are starting to slow down for me a little bit with the play calls in the huddle and knowing where I'm supposed to be and not worrying about the play call so much as I was before," he said. "But now (it's) working more on my technique and running my routes against guys."
Kick Start
Kicker Brett Maher is off to a strong start in minicamp. He connected on all five of his field goal tries Tuesday from 33, 36, 39, 42 and 44 yards.
This is Maher's first full offseason as the Cowboys' primary kicker. He beat out former captain Dan Bailey for the job in training camp and made 29 of 36 attempts last season, including the winning field goal at Atlanta as time expired in November.
Punter Kasey Redfern handled some of the kicking duties during this year's OTAs.
