Close Article Return to stream X
NFL •

5 Dallas Cowboys Storylines To Follow During 2015 OTAs

+Read full article
Getty Images

5 Dallas Cowboys Storylines To Follow During 2015 OTAs

Dallas Cowboys Rookie Minicamp
Getty Images

After a strong start to the offseason, the Dallas Cowboys head into OTAs with a new-look defense and an even stronger offensive line -- as crazy as that sounds. On the downside, they also have important contract situations to work out with Dez Bryant and Brandon Carr, as well as the task of finding a starting running back. Here are the five biggest storylines to follow as OTAs kick off May 26.

5. Brandon Carr's Performance And Contract Situation

Brandon Carr Contract NFL Dallas Cowboys
Getty Images

5. Brandon Carr's Performance And Contract Situation

Brandon Carr Contract NFL Dallas Cowboys
Getty Images

Quite possibly the No. 1 storyline heading into OTAs is the contract situation of Brandon Carr. Counting $ 12.7 million against the cap in 2015, Carr likely needs to take a pay cut to remain with the team. His play during OTAs will be monitored closely, but talks between the front office and Carr will be even more important. His presence will have a big impact on how the secondary shakes out.

4. Offensive Line vs. Defensive Line

Demarcus Lawrence OTA Dallas Cowboys
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

4. Offensive Line vs. Defensive Line

Demarcus Lawrence OTA Dallas Cowboys
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Everyone knows Dallas has an elite offensive line, but the defensive line is no slouch, either. With the additions of Greg Hardy and Randy Gregory, and Demarcus Lawrence poised for a breakout year, the defensive end position looks strong on paper. It'll be fun to watch battles such as Tyron Smith vs. Hardy, or Doug Free vs. Lawrence. There will be no easy matchups in the trenches during OTAs.

3. Battle For No. 1 Running Back Spot

Joseph Randle NFL Dallas Cowboys
Getty Images

3. Battle For No. 1 Running Back Spot

Joseph Randle NFL Dallas Cowboys
Getty Images

The storyline we'll be hearing about until the season kicks off on Sept. 13 is who will be the starting running back? As of now, it's an open competition between Darren McFadden, Joseph Randle and Ryan Williams, with Lance Dunbar being a change-of-pace back. Ben Tate is reportedly working out for Dallas on Thursday, which shows the team isn't done searching for help at the position. You also can't rule out a trade for a guy like Lamar Miller.

2. Dez Bryant Contract Negotiations

Dez Bryant OTA Dallas Cowboys
Getty Images

2. Dez Bryant Contract Negotiations

Dez Bryant OTA Dallas Cowboys
Getty Images

Even more important than Brandon Carr's contract, signing Dez Bryant to a long-term deal should be priority No. 1 in Dallas. An unhappy or distracted Bryant is not what the team wants during the 2015 season, so getting a deal done before training camp is key. He'll likely be absent from voluntary OTAs, but if he does participate, it will show his dedication and commitment to the Cowboys. Keep an eye on this situation in the coming weeks.

1. La'el Collins vs. Ronald Leary For Starting Left Guard

La'el Collins LSU Tigers
Getty Images

1. La'el Collins vs. Ronald Leary For Starting Left Guard

La'el Collins LSU Tigers
Getty Images

The Dallas Cowboys signing La'el Collins is similar to a millionaire hitting the lottery: the rich get richer. The NFL's best offensive line in 2014 added a top-10 talent to the group, as long as Collins can beat out Ronald Leary for the starting left guard spot. If he does, look for Leary to be a possible trade chip to bring in a running back such as Lamar Miller. A trade of that caliber is a stretch, but I wouldn't rule it out.

Cameron DaSilva is a writer for RantSports.
Your Favorites