Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, gratitude, and feasting—and for Dallas Cowboys fans, it’s no different. While the 2024 season has been filled with ups and downs, there are still several things to be thankful for as the Cowboys head into their Thanksgiving Day matchup against the New York Giants. Despite a challenging year, here are three reasons why Cowboys fans should still count their blessings this season.
1. The Impact of Spring Football on the Cowboys’ Roster
The rise of spring football leagues like the USFL, XFL, and UFL has been a boon for the Cowboys in recent years, offering opportunities to find hidden gems who have contributed significantly to the roster.
One such player is KaVontae Turpin, who has emerged as a game-changing return specialist for the Cowboys. Turpin, a standout in the USFL before joining Dallas in 2022, has been a constant threat on special teams. After earning a Pro Bowl spot last season, he continues to make big plays, including multiple touchdowns this year on both kick and punt returns.
Kicker Brandon Aubrey, another product of spring football, has been a steady force for Dallas since joining the team in 2023. Aubrey, who played soccer professionally, has converted 61 out of 68 field goal attempts and even set a franchise record with a 65-yard field goal earlier this season. He’s proven to be one of the most reliable weapons in the Cowboys’ arsenal.
Whoever is in charge scouting players from the USFL/UFL for the #Cowboys needs a promotion and pay raise:
– Brandon Aubrey
– KaVontae Turpin
– Josh ButlerAll three players impacting the team in positive ways over the last few weeks.#DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/vRZ73PmQYE
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) November 24, 2024
Adding to the list is cornerback Josh Butler, who recently stepped up in a big way. Butler, a 2023 signee from the Michigan Panthers, recorded a team-high 12 tackles in Week 12’s win over the Washington Commanders, filling in admirably in the absence of key defensive players.
Thanks to these spring league players, the Cowboys have found fresh talent that has made an immediate impact.
2. Change May Be Coming: A New Beginning?
The Cowboys’ season has been filled with frustration, with a 4-7 record putting them on the outside looking in at the NFC playoff picture. But amid the disappointment, there is the possibility of change on the horizon.
Head coach Mike McCarthy, who led the Cowboys to three consecutive 12-win seasons, is now facing questions about his future. After a disastrous 48-32 loss to the Green Bay Packers last January, Jerry Jones’ comments about McCarthy’s expiring contract have fueled speculation about a potential coaching change. With a tough season and injuries taking their toll, it seems that Jones is losing patience with the current regime.
Changes in the coaching staff are always uncertain, but the mere possibility that something could shift offers Cowboys fans a glimmer of hope. Will this season’s struggles lead to a more significant overhaul, or can McCarthy and his staff find a way to salvage it? Only time will tell.
In just his second career NFL start, Cowboys cornerback Josh Butler was making an impact. He was all over the place against the Commanders on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/vfRBIriAli
— Dan Rogers (@DannyPhantom24) November 25, 2024
3. CeeDee Lamb: The Bright Spot in an Otherwise Dim Season
In a season marked by inconsistency and injuries, CeeDee Lamb remains a beacon of hope for Cowboys fans. The 2020 first-round pick has developed into one of the NFL’s premier wide receivers, and his play this season has been nothing short of remarkable.
Despite the struggles on offense and the loss of quarterback Dak Prescott, Lamb has remained a consistent force. He leads the league in receptions (77) and targets (118), ranking third in yards (841) and is on pace for another 1,000-yard season. His ability to make big plays, coupled with his exceptional route running and reliability, continues to make him one of the most dangerous weapons in the Cowboys’ offense.
Lamb’s continued growth and consistency in a season full of ups and downs is a testament to his talent and determination. Cowboys fans can take comfort in knowing they have one of the league’s brightest stars on their roster, no matter what the rest of the season holds.
CEEDEE LAMB TO THE HOUSE ‼️
🎥: @NFL pic.twitter.com/mcSyRmzQu4
— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) September 27, 2024
While this season has not gone as planned for the Dallas Cowboys, there are still plenty of reasons for fans to be thankful. The impact of spring football leagues, the potential for change in the future, and the continued excellence of CeeDee Lamb are just a few of the silver linings to focus on.
As Thanksgiving Day approaches, Cowboys fans can hold on to these positives, hoping that brighter days are ahead. Whether it’s a season turnaround or a hopeful future, there’s always something to be thankful for in the world of sports.
