Dallas Cowboys 2020 rookie grades: Touted class delivers mixed bag
A-. . C. Round 5, Pick 146. TYLER BIADASZ
The offensive line has been a strength for this team for quite a while but that was far from the case in 2020. Injuries ravaged the position group, which is one of the reasons why Tyler Biadasz was forced to play over 400 snaps. However, he came into the fold and performed like the player who was once projected as a top-100 pick.
Named to the PFF All-Rookie Team, Biadasz had some ups and downs, as you’d expect any rookie thrown into a disheveled situation to. However, he showcased his ability to be a solid asset in the middle of the line, moving well and showing few ill effects from his injuries in college. With the line hopefully back at 100 percent next year, the hope is that Biadasz can progress to take over from stopgap option, Joe Looney.
. DE. Round 5, Pick 179. BRADLEE ANAE. INC
Most people agreed that Dallas landing Bradlee Anae in the fifth round was a massive steal for the franchise eager to address the pass rush. But with Aldon Smith shining and Randy Gregory eventually returning, the Utah product was unable to find snaps, even if many wanted him to get his shot in an ultimately lost season for the Cowboys.
Seeing that Anae played fewer than 10 defensive snaps this season, it’s impossible to give him an accurate grade for his rookie season with Dallas. The hope is that, with a full offseason, he’ll be able to crack the defensive end rotation next season.
D-. . QB. Round 7, Pick 231. BEN DINUCCI
The only reason that Ben DiNucci doesn’t receive a failing grade is that he was put in a situation he had no business being in. Had this been a regular year, Andy Dalton’s injury would’ve led to the Cowboys signing a veteran for a spot start. Instead, the rookie from James Madison was thrust into the fold.
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Make no mistake, he was bad once he got the call. He was completely overwhelmed by the Eagles defense in his lone start and quickly made way for Garrett Gilbert. DiNucci looked unrefined and ill-equipped to compete in the NFL. Frankly, he’ll be fighting for a roster spot in the 2021 season. But again, this was always the case; he had no business starting an NFL game as a rookie.