As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for the upcoming NFL season, tight end Jake Ferguson stands out as a key contributor to the mounting excitement. After a challenging 2024 season marred by injuries, Ferguson is embracing the renewed energy under head coach Brian Schottenheimer, driven by both team chemistry and improved offensive weapons. The Jake Ferguson Cowboys season excitement centers around his growing rapport with quarterback Dak Prescott and the expanded depth in the passing game.
Building Strong Connections Between Ferguson and Prescott
Ferguson highlighted the natural chemistry he shares with Dak Prescott, attributing their progress to consistent effort and daily practice sessions. Their connection, especially on particular routes like seam throws, has been strengthening since Ferguson joined the team. This evolving partnership aims to boost their effectiveness in the Cowboys’ passing attack.
“That’s been going back since I got here. I love the seam ball, he loves throwing it. We just happened to have that play called today, but we’ve been repping that daily, routes on air, stuff like that. That’s been a connection that’s been building continuously.”
—Jake Ferguson, Dallas Cowboys tight end
The Impact of New Offensive Weapons Enhances Game Strategy
The Cowboys’ recent acquisition of wide receiver George Pickens has further enriched their offensive arsenal, creating challenges for opposing defenses. Ferguson pointed out the difficulty of covering all the skilled receivers on the roster, which includes veterans like CeeDee Lamb and rising talents such as Jalen Tolbert and Brevyn Spann-Ford. This depth not only strengthens the pass game but also complements the team’s ability to run the ball effectively.
“You can’t cover everybody. I mean, having [Pickens], [CeeDee Lamb], Jalen [Tolbert], some of the young guys, myself, Brevyn [Spann-Ford], [Luke Schoonmaker], you physically cannot cover everybody. I think it’s going to be really hard in the pass game, but then also we can run the ball too.”
—Jake Ferguson, Dallas Cowboys tight end
Commanders’ Rookie Running Back Jacory Croskey-Merritt Shows Promise
The Washington Commanders enter the season with rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt, selected in the seventh round. Croskey-Merritt is making strides under the mentorship of established backs Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and Jeremy McNichols, who provide valuable advice about fine details to improve performance. This support has helped Croskey-Merritt gain confidence and develop his skills early in his professional journey.
“I’m learning a lot, day by day,”
Croskey-Merritt shared.
“Those guys are telling me just small details of the game like what I can work on or what we can do better to improve as a running back room. It’s a dream come true just to have big brothers in a room that can help me elevate my game.”
—Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Washington Commanders running back
Commanders running backs coach Anthony Lynn praised Croskey-Merritt’s dedication and professionalism despite his rookie status, noting the player’s rapid growth during training camp.
“He’s working, man. I love the kid. He’s already a young professional. He gets this business. He worked his way up from Alabama State to get to this level, and that says a lot about his work ethic right there. But he’s looking good. Usually by that third week of training camp, I’ll know exactly what we have in him, but he’s learning right now. He’s growing up like a weed every day. So, I’m pleased with where he is at.”
—Anthony Lynn, Washington Commanders running backs coach
Croskey-Merritt is determined to prove his capabilities to the coaching staff by demonstrating his talent on the field.
“They know what’s coming, but they really don’t,”
he said.
I just want to go out there and show them. That’s the bottom line.
—Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Washington Commanders running back
Giants Reinforce Offensive Line Depth to Manage Injury Risks
The New York Giants have bolstered their offensive tackle depth by signing James Hudson and drafting Marcus Mbow. These moves aim to prepare for possible absences of left tackle Andrew Thomas, who has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons. General manager Joe Schoen acknowledged the necessity of having reliable backups to protect the team’s offensive line effectively.
“Yeah, that’s why we signed (James) Hudson in the offseason. We drafted (Marcus) Mbow, so we have some depth there. So you know, we’re happy with our third and fourth tackle,”
Schoen explained.
“So again, like you hate to have to do that, you would really love [Andrew Thomas] to be out there, all 17 games, but you do have to protect yourself. And so, you know, that’s another area where we added some depth.”
—Joe Schoen, New York Giants general manager
What This Means for the Season Ahead
Jake Ferguson’s renewed health and deepening bond with quarterback Dak Prescott symbolize a key factor driving the Dallas Cowboys’ anticipation for the season. The team’s expanded receiving options, combined with solid running game potential, set the stage for a versatile offense. Meanwhile, young players like Croskey-Merritt in Washington show promise in developing talent, and the Giants’ proactive roster moves reflect strategic preparations for consistent performance despite injuries. Collectively, these developments suggest an NFL season rich with competitive energy and evolving player dynamics.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Jake Ferguson’s real name?
A. Jonathan “Jake” Ferguson, born on January 18, 1999, plays professional football as a tight end for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL.
Q. Is Jake Ferguson a sleeper?
A. Despite a tough previous year, Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson is seen as a possible fantasy football sleeper pick for 2025, says Jamey Eisenberg from CBS Sports.
Q. Did Jake Ferguson tear his ACL?
A. Early tests confirmed his ACL was fine, but an MRI was planned for Monday morning in Dallas. Ferguson shared positive news on social media expressing gratitude, saying, “God is good!” His injury was just an MCL sprain from the tackle, and it won’t end his season.