For the first time in a long time, the Dallas Cowboys enter a season without knowing exactly who will start for them at tight end. Of course, over the last 15 years Jason Witten has occupied that role week in and week out, but due to his retirement the Cowboys are now searching for his replacement.
Geoff Swaim is the assumed starter heading into mini camp as he has had the most tangible NFL success of any of the tight ends currently on the roster. Rico Gathers “hive” is losing steam by the week, and judging by his own quotes it doesn't sound like he even expects to be around the Cowboys much longer.
Then there is 2018 draft pick Dalton Schultz, who while expected to make some type of impact in 2018, specifically as a blocker, has yet to play a down of actual NFL action.
The forgotten man of this position group is former Oklahoma State tight end Blake Jarwin, but if early indication from OTAs mean anything whatsoever he may not be forgotten about for long.
According to DallasCowboys.com's Rob Phillips, Blake Jarwin finished off each of the final open OTA practices with touchdown catches from backup quarterback Cooper Rush. Phillips also reported that Jawrin has impressed with his ability to separate from defenders downfield and pose a receiving threat thus far in OTAs.
Blake Jarwin was signed as an undrafted free agent back in October of 2017, and considering his versatility as a college tight end and fullback, it's easy to understand why. At Oklahoma State, Jarwin was used in-line as a traditional tight end, in the slot, and even out wide on the boundary. Jarwin was first team all conference as a Junior, and was named second team all conference following his senior season.
Due to some underwhelming stats Blake Jarwin was never known as much of a receiving threat at Oklahoma State, but his route running ability and athleticism allows for a higher ceiling as a pass catcher in the NFL. Regardless, Jarwin could be useful as a blocker in the Cowboys run-heavy scheme.
Of course, success during OTA workouts means next-to-nothing, but considering how wide open the Cowboys' tight end situation appears to be you should definitely keep your eye on Blake Jarwin moving forward.
