Position Breakdown of Cowboys’ 53-Man Roster

Quarterbacks (2)

While they kept three last year, there just wasn't room for Mike White this time around. The 2018 draft pick didn't make the jump as the Cowboys would've liked, therefore Dak Prescott and Cooper Rush are the only two on the roster.

Let's see if both White and Taryn Christion find a way on the practice squad.

Running Backs (4)

If the reports are true, the Cowboys could be getting close to a deal with Ezekiel Elliott that would bring the two-time NFL rushing champ back to the team. Based off the initial roster moves, that would also make sense, considering the Cowboys only kept Tony Pollard and Alfred Morris as the tailbacks, and Jamize Olawale as the fullback. Since the weekend, the Cowboys signed Jordan Chunn to the roster as the third tailback who can help on special teams.

Tight Ends (3)

No surprises here. The only question is the health of both Blake Jarwin and Dalton Schultz but it sounds as if the two will be ready for the season opener against the Giants. Both of them are expected to contribute behind starter Jason Witten.

Wide Receiver (5)

This could always change, but as of Saturday, just five receivers made the team, including Devin Smith. While he began camp near the back of the group, the speedster just continued to make plays, leading the team in catches and yards in the preseason. Plus, his ability to cover kicks on special teams gave him added value.

Smith joins a group of Amari Cooper, Michael Gallup, Randall Cobb and Tavon Austin.

Noah Brown and Jon'vea Johnson were placed on injured reserve.

Tackles (3)

This position went down as expected. Tyron Smith and La'el Collins are the starters with Cameron Fleming serving as the swing tackle for the second straight year. The Cowboys decided to keep rookie Brandon Knight, who played tackle in college as well.

Centers (3)

The return of Travis Frederick has been a good one so far. He looks to be getting better and better and the Cowboys are hoping he will make a full recovery from last year's illness that kept him out all year. A full recovery would be that he returns to All-Pro form. The Cowboys also have Joe Looney, who filled in for Frederick last year and gives the team great position flex and depth with his ability to play guard and center.

Defensive Ends (6)

The Cowboys have a deep roster right here at end, and still cut a player that they liked in Daniel Wise. But with DeMarcus Lawrence, Tyrone Crawford, Kerry Hyder, Dorance Armstrong, Taco Charlton and rookie Joe Jackson, it's a deep group. Charlton helped himself with a big third preseason game and will remain on the roster. Don't forget that Robert Quinn doesn't count to this list because he was moved to the suspension list for two games.

Defensive Tackles (4)

Maliek Collins had a great training camp and preseason and looks ready to anchor this group. Antwaun Woods and Christian Covington can help with at the 1-technique spot, while second-round pick Trysten Hill will likely be in a healthy rotation.

Linebackers (6)

This might be one of the deepest groups on the team, especially at the top with Leighton Vander Esch, Jaylon Smith and Sean Lee. After that, Joe Thomas and Justin March have veteran experience and will help on special teams. Rookie Luke Gifford played just half of a preseason game before getting a pick and then getting hurt. But his ankle sprain will likely carry a week or two into the season, meaning he will probably be inactive to start the season.

Cornerback (5)

Another deep group, headlined by Byron Jones, who should be ready to play after a hip injury forced him to miss the entire offseason. Chido Awuzie, Anthony Brown and Jourdan Lewis have played well this summer and then C.J. Goodwin is the team's best special teams player.

The Cowboys made a tough call to cut rookie draft pick Mike Jackson and Donovan Olumba, who had a stellar preseason.

Safeties (5)

This position could change, but for now, it has five players, led by Xavier Woods and Jeff Heath. Darian Thompson is a solid special teams player and reserve. Donovan Wilson could miss a few weeks with an ankle injury, which is why Kavon Frazier perhaps still made the team. Frazier has been the Cowboys' most reliable special teams player over the past two years.

Specialists (3)

This is the same as last year, although Brett Maher might not have a long leash. But he's kicked the ball much better as of late. Chris Jones not only serves as the punter, but the holder for kicks, while L.P. Ladouceur enters his 14th pro season as the deep snapper.