Heading into the final week of the preseason, many anticipated that the Cowboys cornerback depth chart was just about set. Of course, we all know the locks at the top of the roster, but corner Charvarius Ward seemed to have earned the final secondary spot.
Then, surprisingly, the Cowboys decided to deal Ward to the Kansas City Chiefs in an effort to bring in some more offensive line depth. This move makes a ton of sense, especially considering the injuries across the Cowboys offensive line, but it did open up a roster spot in this cornerback group.
That final spot is coming down to three corners in particular: Donovan Olumba, Duke Thomas, and Marquez White. And while it feels like Thomas has been around the Cowboys forever, and Marquez White is a former sixth round pick by Dallas just one year ago, it’s Olumba who has earned that roster spot this preseason.
During the preseason finale against the Houston Texans, Donovan Olumba seized his opportunity. The former undrafted free agent showed off his length and athleticism, and displayed just why he fits the mold which Kris Richard targets in his players.
As mentioned by Bobby Belt, Olumba finished the preseason tied for first in most pass breakups on the team. Tied, of course, with arguably the best cornerback on the roster, second year player Chidobe Awuzie.
Donovan Olumba uses all of his 6’2″ frame in coverage, and is aggressive enough when breaking on routes to make plays on the ball. He plays with a toughness which Kris Richard values highly in cornerbacks, and has the strength and length to keep up with wide outs throughout their routes. Of course, he isn’t going to be a number one corner any time soon but Olumba has certainly proved he’s deserving of that last cornerback spot.
In the past the Cowboys have struggled to find defensive back with these skills, but as of late they have put a premium on finding corners who play aggressively and look to get their hands on the ball.
It looks like this emphasis is paying off all across the defense, from the very top of the corner depth chart to the very bottom.
