Complacency is one of the worst things that can happen to just about any professional athlete. When an athlete stops trying to get better year in and year out, that is usually when they get replaced by someone who is younger, cheaper, and perhaps shows more promise. Fortunately for the Dallas Cowboys though, wide receiver Cole Beasley doesn't believe in complacency and his past history would indicate he will be even better in 2017.
It's difficult for some athletes to continue to try to improve their craft year after year, but those who have a desire to be great are able to self motivate themselves and put in the work required day after day to succeed. That's the way Cole Beasley seems to approach the game and why he has continued to improve in every season since being signed as an undrafted free agent in 2012.
As you can see, Cole Beasley finished with a career-high in catches (75), yards (833), and catching percentage (76.5%) in 2016 and is looking to pick up where he left off this season. But, what you may not have noticed is that starting in 2012, Beasley has pretty much improved his reception totals, yardage, and touchdowns every year since entering the NFL. He also had his first rushing attempt of his career last season.
This may not mean very much to any of you, but if you're a fan of history like myself, then your adding things up like I am. If you happened to come to the same conclusion that I have and are a believer in history, then Cole Beasley is going to have a fantastic 2017 season.
Now, I know what a lot of you are probably thinking. Beasley has a lot going against him if he wants to come anywhere near duplicating the career highs he put up in 2017. But, Beasley has not only developed into the best slot WR in the entire NFL, but has also become the favorite target of his QB, Dak Prescott. That means his offensive role is secure and he should once again be heavily involved in the offensive game plan.
Unfortunately, there are a few things working against Beasley. First off, Dez Bryant will be completely healthy to start the season, which could limit some of Beasley's targets. Secondly, offensive coordinator Scott Linehan could be looking to get rookie WR Ryan Switzer involved in the offense as well. That could also cut into the amount of targets Beasley receives.
Of course, Dez Bryant's return and Ryan Switzer's addition to the offense also could benefit Cole Beasley. Linehan could really get creative and open up the entire passing game for Prescott, which could create even more opportunities for #11.
I'm usually not one to put much stock into predicting statistics for players, especially with training camp yet to get underway. But, I'm also not one to go against what we can learn from history. And history indicates that Cole Beasley will once again set career highs for himself in 2017.
