The Dallas Cowboys were well represented by first-time Pro Bowlers in 2018. Which five players are most likely to make their first trip this season for them?
A 10-6 record for the Dallas Cowboys in 2018 was enough for them to win the NFC East. They didn’t go as far as they hoped to though, as they were sent home following a Divisional Round loss to the Los Angeles Rams — who ended up representing the NFC in the Super Bowl.
While the team didn’t reach their ultimate goal, several members of the roster had great individual campaigns which ended with nods to the Pro Bowl. Players such as quarterback Dak Prescott, running back Ezekiel Elliott, defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, and wide receiver Amari Cooper were all returning Pro Bowlers.
There were also a couple of players making their first trip, which included cornerback Bryon Jones and linebacker Leighton Vander Esch. For Jones, it was a great honor that highlighted how much had changed for him in one season.
A first-round pick in 2015, Jones had been lining up at free safety but there were questions about his fit there. New defensive backs coach Kris Richard moved him to corner in 2018 and Jones’ play improved to the point he was honored as a Pro Bowler.
As for LVE, the No. 19 overall pick out of Boise State wasn’t greeted too warmly in the draft as fans wanted a wide receiver instead. Vander Esch won the fans over quickly and proved the front office correct in choosing him as he finished his rookie season with 140 tackles and two interceptions.
Looking ahead to 2019, here are five players who could follow in the steps of Jones and LVE by making their first Pro Bowl.