The Dallas Cowboys’ 2024 season has been defined by inconsistency and setbacks. Injuries and underwhelming performances on both sides of the ball have forced the team into constant adjustments. With their playoff hopes fading, Dallas should now turn its attention to evaluating talent for the future.
Two players, wide receiver KaVontae Turpin and cornerback/safety Israel Mukuamu, deserve increased opportunities in the final seven games. Here’s why these emerging talents should take on bigger roles.
1. KaVontae Turpin: A Speedster with Untapped Potential
The Cowboys’ offense has been among the league’s worst, especially following Dak Prescott’s injury. However, KaVontae Turpin’s electrifying 64-yard touchdown against the Texans in Week 11 showcased a glimmer of hope.
TURPIN SPEEDS FOR 64. TD, COWBOYS!
📺: #HOUvsDAL on ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/58pkIaiCvb— NFL (@NFL) November 19, 2024
Turpin reached a blazing 22.36 mph during the play—the fastest speed by any NFL ball carrier this season. His quickness and ability to turn short passes into game-breaking plays are assets the Cowboys have barely tapped into.
Currently a restricted free agent at season’s end, Turpin’s role on offense remains unclear. If Dallas limits him to kick/punt return duties and as a depth receiver, retaining him might be difficult amid other roster needs.
🔥 Fastest ball carrier this season: KaVontae Turpin (22.36 mph)
(via @NextGenStats) pic.twitter.com/MzTkeEHrpO
— NFL (@NFL) November 19, 2024
The Cowboys need to experiment with ways to leverage Turpin’s elite speed. Whether it’s quick slants, jet sweeps, or deep routes, creative play-calling could make him a consistent weapon. By doing so, Dallas will not only address its offensive struggles but also assess whether Turpin is worth a long-term investment.
2. Israel Mukuamu: A Versatile Defensive Asset
With starting slot corner Jourdan Lewis sidelined in Week 11, Israel Mukuamu stepped in for his most extensive action of the season. The 24-year-old played 38 defensive snaps, showing flashes of potential despite one notable lapse against Nico Collins.
Mukuamu’s 6’4” frame allows him to be physical with receivers, a valuable skill for a secondary that has struggled this year. While he gave up three catches for 52 yards, the long reception accounted for the bulk of that yardage. Overall, he showed promise as a slot corner option.
Got beat badly by Nico Collins once, but I thought Israel Mukuamu performed admirably in the slot for most of the game. Loved his physicality at the LOS to disrupt WRs’ route off the snap. He had a snafu or two in run defense but also filled pretty well throughout the game.
— John Owning (@JohnOwning) November 19, 2024
Looking ahead, Lewis’ future with Dallas is uncertain. He’s been excellent in 2024 but will likely command a contract the Cowboys can’t match. Mukuamu, a pending free agent himself, offers a younger and more affordable alternative.
In the remaining games, Dallas must determine whether Mukuamu can be a reliable starting slot corner. His ability to play multiple positions in the secondary gives the Cowboys flexibility, and extended playing time will provide a clearer picture of his potential.
Why It Matters
For a team already looking to 2025, maximizing the potential of players like Turpin and Mukuamu is essential. Both have shown flashes of brilliance, and expanded roles could solidify their standing as key pieces of the Cowboys’ future.
Dallas needs to focus not just on finishing the season with pride but on making smart personnel decisions that set the stage for success in the years ahead. Turpin and Mukuamu could be part of that solution—if given the chance.
