As the countdown to Cowboys training camp heats up, a wave of quiet confidence is building in Dallas—not about the usual star names, but about a core of underappreciated players that could soon be stealing the spotlight. With whispers from the locker room, nods from the coaching staff, and flashes of brilliance in practice, these six Dallas Cowboys players might just be the NFL’s biggest surprise package in 2025.
Terence Steele: Redemption Road Begins Now
From the whipping boy of the offensive line to a potential redemption arc worthy of Hollywood, Terence Steele’s name is back in the mix. Critics wrote him off after his ACL injury derailed his momentum in 2022. But after another year of recovery, revamped coaching, and stronger reinforcements around him, Steele may be ready to reclaim the Pro Bowl trajectory he once owned. Coaches are cautiously optimistic, and one insider even hinted, “If he’s back to form, Steele’s going to turn a lot of heads.” Don’t blink—his comeback season may already be in motion.
Cooper Beebe: Anchoring the Offensive Revolution
When Cooper Beebe quietly snatched the starting center role from Tyler Biadasz last year, it barely made national news. That’s about to change. The former Kansas State standout is now reuniting with his old college line coach Conor Riley—the same man who helped mold him into a mauling interior force. “Coop is just getting warmed up,” one staffer said. Sandwiched between two aggressive linemen, Beebe is expected to level up his play with better chemistry and more confidence. Cowboys fans may soon be chanting his name louder than ever before.
Brevyn Spann-Ford: Secret Weapon at Tight End?
While the Cowboys didn’t draft or sign a tight end this offseason, many believe that was a statement in itself—a declaration of faith in Brevyn Spann-Ford. The undrafted rookie from last year quietly impressed during all 17 games, showcasing elite blocking and growing into his frame. New OC Klayton Adams is known for maximizing tight end production, and Spann-Ford is his next project. “He’s bigger, smarter, and already knows what we expect,” said one assistant coach. Watch this name closely—he could be the sleeper fantasy tight end nobody saw coming.
Jack Sanborn: From Overlooked to Overachieving
In a quiet move that could have loud consequences, Dallas brought in Jack Sanborn on a cheap one-year deal—though it might just be the steal of the offseason. Sanborn already has the trust of DC Matt Eberflus, who coached him in Chicago and clearly pushed for the signing. Despite being a supposed depth piece, Sanborn is now earning high praise and “looks like a natural fit,” according to insiders. With Kenneth Murray still settling in, don’t be shocked if Sanborn becomes the Cowboys’ top tackler by midseason.
Kaiir Elam: Fresh Start, Fierce Focus
After failing to live up to expectations in Buffalo, Kaiir Elam arrived in Dallas with little fanfare. But the former first-round pick is making waves at camp, seizing his second chance with serious determination. “He’s playing like he’s got something to prove—and he does,” noted a coach. With several key corners recovering from injuries, Elam might become the glue guy the secondary needs. A strong camp could catapult him into the starting lineup, rewriting his NFL narrative in the process.
Alijah Clark: UDFA Underdog with a Real Shot
Every season has its surprise star, and this year’s leading candidate might just be Alijah Clark. The former Syracuse safety was the highest-paid undrafted free agent on the Cowboys’ roster, signaling early belief. He’s already delivered in rookie minicamp and OTAs, earning first-team reps—a rarity for UDFAs. “Clark’s instincts are elite, and he’s not intimidated at all,” a defensive staffer shared. Between defense and special teams, Clark could go from unknown to unforgettable in 2025.
The Cowboys’ stars may hog the headlines, but it’s often the unexpected heroes who tilt seasons. With high upside, insider trust, and the hunger to prove doubters wrong, these six players aren’t just sleepers—they’re potentially game-changers.
