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Dallas Cowboys: Chidobe Awuzie embracing versatility vital for defense

By Cody Williams

Mar 5, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Colorado Buffalos defensive back Chidobe Awuzie speaks to the media during the 2017 combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 5, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Colorado Buffalos defensive back Chidobe Awuzie speaks to the media during the 2017 combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dallas Cowboys rookie cornerback Chidobe Awuzie arrived at rookie minicamp on Saturday, and his willingness to do whatever is asked will be vital for defense.

Normally there’s a negative connotation with a rookie missing time at the team’s initial minicamp. However, that’s far from the case with Dallas Cowboys rookie cornerback Chidobe Awuzie. He arrived to camp late, participating for the first time on Saturday. The reason why? Awuzie was in Colorado at his graduation.

Upon his arrival, though, Awuzie made a clear impression on the Cowboys and the coaching staff. Obviously part of that has to do with him being a tremendous athlete and player — one Dallas has to still feel blessed to have fallen in their laps with the 60th overall pick. While true, another big part of what coaches noticed was his approach and mentality.

Speaking on Awuzie’s first day of camp, head coach Jason Garrett was exceptionally complimentary of the Colorado Buffaloes product. Garrett told DallasCowboys.com that he liked that the rookie “took care of his responsibilities” with school by being at graduation, but then was on the field and “back to work.” For a young man and player, that type of dedication and attitude can go a long way. Not only does it garner favor with coaches, but also allows a player to become the best version of themselves on the field.

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On the field, though, Awuzie’s mental and physical approach are going to be crucial to the Cowboys defense. In terms of needing help in the secondary, it’s obvious that Awuzie addresses that. Hell, that’s one of the reasons why he’s in Dallas now. What’s special about the Colorado graduate is the various roles he could potentially fill.

With great speed a variety of polished skills set in the defensive backfield, Awuzie has the potential to play outside corner, in the nickel, and even spend time at safety. There have been questions since the draft as to where Dallas will use him. At this point, even he doesn’t know the answer to that. However, he’s ready for whatever challenge is thrown at him and is embracing his versatility.

He had this to say regarding his position, also per DallasCowboys.com:

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"“It’s up to the coaches. Obviously I think I can play all three at an elite level. I think one of the reasons they picked me was because of my versatility. Wherever they put me I’m going to give it my all.”"

Again, it’s hard not the feel optimistic as a Cowboys fan seeing that type of mentality. Not only does he have the confidence to believe he can succeed no matter where he is on the field, but he’s also willing to put in the work wherever he’s asked to.

Awuzie’s willingness to embrace his own versatility is pivotal for the success of the Cowboys defense. With so many new elements in the secondary, there is going to be shuffling to try and find the right combination. So to have a player willing to play wherever he best helps the team, especially a rookie, is crucial. That team-first mentality is contagious and will help the young Awuzie establish himself as a leader for the unit.

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Based solely on the tape and the measurables, it seemed that the Cowboys got a massive steal on Day 2 of the draft by landing Awuzie. The more you hear from the young defensive back, though, that seems even more so the case.

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