The Cowboys aren't having Drew Shelton work across different positions just to keep him busy during rookie minicamp. There's a purpose behind it: the team doesn't want one position battle to end up creating a ripple effect across the line.
The early feedback on Shelton, along with how he looked during rookie workouts, made that clear. He's being asked to cover both tackle and guard roles, giving Dallas some flexibility if changes need to be made elsewhere on the line.
"I mean, yeah, I think it's still up in the air," Shelton said. "Obviously, Guyton is the left tackle right now, and then there's a few other guys in the room who are also really good players. So I am just happy to be working at both spots and seeing where it goes."
The more notable comments came from Brian Schottenheimer. He described Shelton as a left tackle with guard flexibility who could also switch sides if needed.
That gives a clearer picture of how Dallas views their depth chart. It is not just about finding a backup, but about building a reliable option behind Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele , especially given the limited number of proven linemen on the roster.
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The Cowboys have plenty of reasons to be optimistic about their talent, but there are also valid concerns. The last thing the coaching staff wants is to address one tackle issue and end up creating problems elsewhere on the line.
That's why much of the outside analysis of Shelton's role keeps coming back to flexibility. He's a player who has always projected as someone who could eventually move inside, and Dallas clearly sees that range as a way to protect their depth early on.
The Cowboys have always valued linemen who can provide more than one solution. Shelton fits that mould, but the timing is important. The team is making versatility part of his early NFL experience because they want answers sooner rather than later.
If Shelton can handle the demands of playing multiple positions and pick up enough technique, he becomes more than just a developmental prospect. He turns into a key piece that allows the Cowboys to keep their preferred lineup intact. That's why this minicamp test is significant – it shows Dallas is still working to stabilise the entire offensive line, not just one rookie.
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