3 Dallas Cowboys who could steal starting jobs in 2019

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MURFREESBORO, TN – OCTOBER 20: Ryan Yurachek #85 of the Marshall Thundering Herd runs after a catch in the first quarter of a game against the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders at Floyd Stadium on October 20, 2017 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

3. Ryan Yurachek, Fullback

This one may not be the most exciting position but it’s worth looking at. The Cowboys added Jamize Olawale last season in a trade with the Oakland Raiders and he was their No. 1 fullback. However, the position wasn’t a constant on the field as Olawale started just four of the 16 games and had a total of 131 snaps according to Pro Football Focus (subscription required).

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Even with his limited use, Olawale was brought back on a three-year deal worth $5.4 million. That was a bit surprising, especially given the lack of use for his position. Then again, none of us knows how new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore plans to run his offense. Maybe he does want to use a fullback more and Olawale has shown some ability as a receiver in the past in addition to his blocking skills, which could make him useful as long as they employ him correctly.

With all that being said, there could be some competition for him this season, especially if pass-catching is a priority at the spot for Moore. Dallas made an interesting signing recently when they picked up former Marshall tight end Ryan Yurachek.

Yurachek was moved to fullback in college and spent all of 2018 on the Raiders practice squad. He’s an interesting candidate due to his receiving prowess as Yurachek had 143 receptions for 1,354 yards and 26 touchdowns at Marshall. As a senior, he had his best season, pulling in 54 passes for 490 yards and 10 scores.

Undersized for a tight end, Yurachek hopes to find a role in the NFL in the backfield. Even with Olawale’s contract, there are no guarantees and Yurachek is a name to watch in camp and the preseason.

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