The journey to the National Football League (NFL) is rarely a straight line. For every highly touted draft pick, there are countless undrafted free agents (UDFAs) who claw their way onto rosters through sheer determination and hard work. Josh Kelly, a name that might not be familiar to casual football fans, embodies this underdog spirit. While he wasn’t selected in the NFL Draft, his opportunity with the Dallas Cowboys represents a significant step in his quest to make his NFL dream a reality. This article explores Kelly's background, his strengths and weaknesses as a player, and what he needs to do to stick with the Cowboys.
Josh Kelly's Background and Path to the NFL
Josh Kelly's football journey began long before he donned the star of the Dallas Cowboys. Understanding his college career provides context for his UDFA status and the skills he brings to the table. The path to the NFL is different for everyone, and Kelly's is one of perseverance. — Democratization Of Portraiture How Photography Made Art Accessible
College Career and Performance
Kelly's college career laid the foundation for his shot at the NFL. His performance, while perhaps not eye-popping enough to warrant a draft selection, demonstrated the potential that attracted the Cowboys. Often, UDFAs like Kelly possess a specific skillset that a team believes can be developed. Josh Kelly began his college career at Washington State, playing sparingly before transferring to Fresno State. At Fresno State, he had a productive career as a pass-catching running back. In his final season, he rushed for over 500 yards and caught over 40 passes, showcasing his dual-threat ability. These numbers, while solid, didn't translate into significant draft buzz, highlighting the competitive nature of the running back position in the NFL. While his raw stats might not jump off the page, Kelly’s film reveals a player with intriguing traits.
Why Undrafted? Understanding UDFA Status
Being an undrafted free agent isn't necessarily an indictment of a player's talent. Many factors contribute to a player going undrafted, including team needs, positional value, and pre-draft evaluations. Josh Kelly’s UDFA status likely stemmed from a combination of factors. The NFL is increasingly prioritizing running backs with elite speed and explosiveness, and Kelly's timed speed might not have matched what teams were looking for. Also, the depth of the running back class in the year he declared for the draft could have pushed him down the board. Ultimately, being undrafted simply means that no team felt compelled to spend a draft pick on him, not that he lacks the ability to play in the NFL. Many successful NFL players started their careers as UDFAs, proving that the draft is not the only path to success.
The Allure of the Dallas Cowboys: A Good Fit?
Landing with the Dallas Cowboys as a UDFA can be viewed as a great opportunity. The Cowboys have a history of developing undrafted players, and their offensive scheme could be a good fit for Kelly's skillset. Dallas has a history of finding diamonds in the rough. Josh Kelly immediately enters a very competitive running back room, but also enters a room that has shown a knack for utilizing multiple running backs. The Cowboys' offensive line, when healthy, is known for creating running lanes, and their passing game can open up opportunities for running backs in the receiving game. Kelly's ability to contribute in both aspects of the game could give him an edge in making the roster.
Analyzing Josh Kelly's Strengths and Weaknesses
To understand Kelly's potential with the Cowboys, it's important to break down his strengths and weaknesses as a player. This analysis will highlight where he excels and what areas he needs to improve upon to make an impact in the NFL. Understanding these nuances is key to predicting his chances of success. — JFC Meaning In Texting: What Does It Stand For?
Strengths: Pass-Catching and Versatility
Josh Kelly's biggest strength lies in his pass-catching ability. He has soft hands and runs crisp routes for a running back, making him a reliable target out of the backfield. In today's NFL, where running backs are increasingly used as receiving threats, this skill is highly valuable. He demonstrates a good understanding of route concepts and is capable of making contested catches. Furthermore, he can line up in the slot or even out wide, adding another layer of versatility to his game. This versatility is a major asset for Kelly, as it allows him to contribute in multiple ways on offense. Being a reliable receiver is critical to earning a role in the modern NFL.
Weaknesses: Speed and Power
While Kelly possesses valuable skills, he also has areas where he needs to improve. His lack of elite speed and power are the most significant drawbacks. Josh Kelly doesn't possess breakaway speed to outrun defenders in the open field, and his smaller frame can make it difficult for him to break tackles consistently. He needs to improve his lower body strength to generate more power when running between the tackles. Additionally, he needs to become a more decisive runner, hitting the holes with more authority. Improving these areas will be crucial for him to compete for a roster spot in the NFL.
Special Teams Potential: A Path to the Roster
For UDFAs, special teams play is often the quickest route to making the roster. Demonstrating value as a kick returner, punt returner, or on coverage units can significantly increase a player's chances of sticking with the team. Josh Kelly will need to embrace special teams and show a willingness to contribute in any way possible. His versatility could translate well to special teams, where he could be used as a blocker or even a receiver on fake punts or field goals. Excelling on special teams can be a game-changer for a UDFA.
What Josh Kelly Needs to Do to Make the Cowboys Roster
The path to making the Cowboys' final roster is paved with hard work and consistent performance. Kelly will need to stand out in training camp and preseason games to prove that he deserves a spot on the team. The following are key areas he should focus on:
Impress in Training Camp: Consistency is Key
Training camp is where players make their first impression on the coaching staff. Josh Kelly needs to be consistent in his performance, showing up every day with a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. He needs to showcase his pass-catching skills, demonstrate his ability to block, and prove that he can contribute on special teams. Making mental mistakes or failing to execute assignments will quickly diminish his chances. Consistency and attention to detail are crucial for a UDFA trying to make a name for himself.
Shine in Preseason Games: Game-Time Performance Matters
Preseason games offer the opportunity to translate training camp performance into live-game situations. Josh Kelly needs to make the most of his opportunities, showcasing his skills and proving that he can handle the pressure of playing in the NFL. He needs to make tough catches, pick up blitzes, and contribute on special teams. A standout performance in a preseason game can significantly boost his chances of making the roster.
Outperform the Competition: Earning a Spot in a Crowded Backfield
The Cowboys' running back room is likely to be crowded, so Kelly will need to outperform the other players competing for a roster spot. He needs to show that he offers something unique that the other backs don't. Josh Kelly's pass-catching ability could be his biggest advantage, but he also needs to demonstrate that he can be a reliable runner between the tackles and a willing blocker. Ultimately, he needs to prove that he is more valuable to the team than the other players vying for the same position. Staying healthy and taking advantage of every rep will be critical.
Special Teams Ace: Embracing the Grind
As mentioned earlier, excelling on special teams can be a game-changer for a UDFA. Josh Kelly needs to fully embrace special teams and show a willingness to do whatever it takes to contribute. He needs to be a reliable tackler, a willing blocker, and a smart decision-maker. Demonstrating a passion for special teams will show the coaching staff that he is a team player who is willing to do the dirty work. This is a skill that the coaching staff loves to see.
Conclusion: An Uphill Battle, but Not Impossible
Josh Kelly's journey to the Dallas Cowboys is a testament to his perseverance and determination. While the odds are stacked against him as a UDFA, he has the skills and work ethic to compete for a roster spot. His pass-catching ability, versatility, and potential on special teams could give him an edge. However, he needs to improve his speed and power and consistently perform at a high level in training camp and preseason games. The road ahead will be challenging, but with hard work and a little bit of luck, Josh Kelly could defy the odds and make his NFL dream a reality.
FAQ: Josh Kelly and His NFL Prospects
Why was Josh Kelly not drafted into the NFL despite his college performance?
Several factors can contribute to a player going undrafted, including concerns about size, speed, or positional value. The depth of talent at his position in that year's draft class also plays a role, potentially pushing solid players like Kelly out of the draft selection range.
What are the primary skills that Josh Kelly brings to the Dallas Cowboys?
Kelly's strengths lie primarily in his pass-catching abilities and versatility. He runs routes well and has reliable hands, making him a good target out of the backfield. This skill set is increasingly valuable in today's NFL, where running backs are often used as receiving threats.
In what specific areas does Josh Kelly need to improve to succeed in the NFL?
To enhance his chances of making the Cowboys roster, Kelly needs to focus on improving his speed and power. Developing more lower body strength for better running between the tackles and increasing decisiveness in hitting the holes are crucial areas for improvement.
How important is special teams performance for an undrafted free agent like Josh Kelly?
Special teams performance is extremely important for UDFAs. Excelling in roles such as kick returner, punt returner, or on coverage units significantly increases a player's chances of making the roster, as it demonstrates versatility and willingness to contribute to the team in multiple facets.
What must Josh Kelly demonstrate during training camp to catch the coaches' eyes?
During training camp, consistency is crucial. Kelly must showcase his pass-catching abilities, demonstrate effective blocking skills, and prove his value on special teams. Avoiding mental mistakes and consistently executing assignments are essential for standing out. — Fantasy Football League Names: Funny, Clever & Unique Ideas
How can Josh Kelly outperform other running backs vying for a spot on the Cowboys' roster?
To outperform his competition, Kelly needs to highlight his unique skills, particularly his pass-catching ability. He must also prove his reliability as a runner and blocker, showcasing his overall value to the team compared to other players in the running back room.
What kind of opportunity does Kelly have being signed by the Dallas Cowboys?
Dallas provides a favorable environment as they've historically developed undrafted talent, and Kelly's receiving skills align well with their offensive scheme. The team's strong offensive line also offers the potential for him to exploit running lanes, increasing his chances of making an impact.
Where can I find more information about the Dallas Cowboys current roster?
For more information on the Dallas Cowboys roster you can visit their official website, ESPN, or other reputable sports news outlets.
https://www.dallascowboys.com/team/roster https://www.espn.com/nfl/team/roster/_/name/dal https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/dal/2024_roster.htm
