Dallas Cowboys: Expectations for Every Rookie Heading into 2011

It’s always tough to predict how rookies will perform.

Quarterbacks are especially tough to judge due to the complexity of the position they play. Luckily, the Cowboys are set at quarterback and won’t face that problem. However, there are a few new parts to the Cowboys offense this season.

Running back DeMarco Murray is probably the biggest name on offense minus Tyron Smith, but what’s expected of the speedy rookie?

Lets take a look at how each rookie is expected to perform in 2011.

Tyron Smith, OL

With the impending departure of Marc Colombo, I stand to believe that Smith will play right tackle, and Free will remain on the left side.

I think that Smith may struggle a bit at first because he has to learn so much in such a small-time frame.

But he’ll eventually even himself out and bring stability to the right side of the Cowboys offensive line.

DeMarco Murray, 85 Carries, 429 Yards, 380 Receiving Yards, 5 Touchdowns

I’ve tempered my expectations of Murray due to the lingering effects of the lockout and Murray’s ability to pick up on the playbook.

I still believe that he’ll have a great impact for the Cowboys, and if Jones happens to go out with an injury, his impact will become even greater.

I still worry about his blocking ability in the NFL, and if he has struggles blocking, so will his numbers.

Bruce Carter, 47 Tackles

Keith Brooking is set to be released and who knows which way Bradie James may go.

If both linebackers are cut, then Bruce Carter and Sean Lee are the face of the Cowboys linebacking core.

Depending on the route Dallas takes with Brooking and James, it will determine Carter’s role with the team.

If he’s a starter, then his numbers should extend past 70 tackles, but if not, I think Carter hovers around 45 or 50 tackles in 2011.

David Arkin, OL

Arkin may see more playing time than expected due to the Cowboys releasing Leonard Davis and possibly trading Marc Colombo.

Arkin may compete with offensive lineman Montrae Holland for a starting spot or playing time, but I am of the belief that Arkin needs time to mature and grow.

Joshua Thomas, 18 Tackles 1 Interception

There is still the possibility that Terrance Newman may be released, and if he is, Thomas should see more playing time.

If Newman remains, then Thomas will see his fair share of special teams and maybe some nickel packages.

Either way, I think Thomas will need a little time to develop and grow in the position, but if the Cowboys slide, he should get his change to do so.

Dwayne Harris, 25 Receptions 354 Yards, 1 Touchdown

With the release of Roy Williams, Harris should see the field more than expected in 2011.

He’ll play special teams but will also see time in the slow.

I think that Harris will use his height and size as an advantage and hopefully gain the trust of quarterback Tony Romo pretty early in the season.

Shaun Chapas, FB

If he makes it out of training camp, Chapas will be a staple on special teams.

The ‘Boys are still looking for a strong fullback, and if he’s able to prove himself for a roster position, he may well be the starter by the end of the season.

Bill Nagy, OL

Another player who may be cut but his chances of making the team have gone up due to the ‘Boys cutting Leonard Davis and maybe releasing Mac Colombo.

I think he’s a practice squad player, but if he’s able to improve his footwork and mechanics, he may turn out to be a pretty decent offensive lineman.