Dallas Cowboys training camp saw its first fight. Fights are a good problem to have in camp. It means the players are competing.
The Dallas Cowboys saw their first fight of 2018 training camp. Although fights often make the news, they do so for the wrong reasons. Fights at camp are not about bad blood, teammates not getting along or a sign of a divided locker room. Instead, fights are a sign that Cowboys camp is competitive.
The fight at camp was between offensive tackle La’el Collins and defensive end Taco Charlton. In terms of fights, it was a small and typical shoving match. Charlton, a second-year player out of Michigan, tried a spin move coming off the edge. Collins, who was working at tackle, beat the move then pushed Charlton to the ground. Charlton pushed Collins, who immediately pushed him back, then the crowds came in to break it up.
Fights break out at camp when two players are competing. Collins needs to improve on his play at right tackle from a season ago. He struggled on the edge against speed rushers. The fact that he was able to beat Charlton’s speed move is an excellent sign. Collins needs to show he has improved from last season if he wants to avoid being moved back inside.
Charlton has a lot to prove after an average rookie season. He was relegated to third down pass rushing situations last season. He also needs to improve his hand technique to be more effective. Working on his pass rush moves is exactly what he needs to be doing.
The Cowboys depth chart at defensive end is loaded with DeMarcus Lawrence returning and Tyrone Crawford established at the other side. That leaves three players for potentially two backup roles. There is Charlton along with newly signed Kony Ealy and Randy Gregory returning from suspension. Charlton will need to prove that he deserves the roster spot. Although he will make the team given his draft status.
The fact that Collins and Charlton are the ones fighting is a great sign for the Cowboys. Both players are taking their craft seriously and are looking to make an impression.
Fight on Cowboys. Fight on.