The biggest surprises from Cowboys training camp so far
OXNARD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 30: Brevyn Spann-Ford #89 of the Dallas Cowboys catches the ball during training camp at River Ridge Playing Fields on July 30, 2026 in Oxnard, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images) | Getty ImagesTraining camp is always full of storylines, but every year a handful of players exceed expectations and force their way into the conversation. While stars like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens will continue to grab the headlines, a few under-the-radar developments have quietly become some of the biggest surprises from the Cowboys time in Oxnard.Brevyn Spann-Ford is making a real push for the TE2 jobHeading into camp based on depth charts, Luke Schoonmaker had a hold on the backup tight end role behind Jake Ferguson with some speculating Spann-Ford could take over. Now, Spann-Ford has become one of the biggest winners of training camp which spells danger for Schoonmaker.Brevyn Spann-Ford with an impressive grab pic.twitter.com/GDg0ZJigMQ Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) August 6, 2026The athletic tight end has consistently flashed as a pass catcher, using his size and movement skills to create difficult matchups. That was always viewed as an area that would help determine whether he could become a complete tight end, and early signs suggest he has taken a significant step forward. He has also shown some pop as a run blocker. This catch by Brevyn Spann-Ford was really impressive pic.twitter.com/wz16ezI1cy Mike Leslie (@MikeLeslieWFAA) August 7, 2026If that continues throughout the preseason, Spann-Ford could not only secure the TE2 role but become an important part of Dallas offensive rotation this season.Jaishawn Barham is looking ready much sooner than expectedThe Cowboys drafted Jaishawn Barham with the expectation that he could eventually become a difference-maker at linebacker. Few expected that process to happen this quickly.Jaishawn Barham and DeMarvion Overshown the first-team linebackers pic.twitter.com/Xd6xdwm9yC Jon Machota (@jonmachota) August 3, 2026Barham has consistently earned praise throughout camp thanks to his speed, range and physicality, with the rookie already receiving opportunities alongside the first-team defense. His ability to diagnose plays and close on the football has stood out, while his athleticism has been evident both against the run and in coverage.Jaishawn Barham is having a strong start to camp pic.twitter.com/Cpz4xH08O3 Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) August 1, 2026After Dallas struggled to find consistent linebacker play last season, Barhams rapid development could end up being one of the most important stories of training camp if it carries into the regular season.The groin injury suffered by Jaishawn Barham yesterday is not considered serious. Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) August 7, 2026Ryan Flournoy is forcing his way into more targetsRyan Flournoy is making a strong case that he will need to see the ball more in 2026.Dak to Ryan Flournoy pic.twitter.com/lPQthueBfA Jon Machota (@jonmachota) August 6, 2026Flournoy has consistently stacked productive practices, showing improved route running and reliable hands to make plays against Dallas defensive backs. His transformation from being cut before last season to his performance at training camp now is astounding.With CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens leading the receiving corps, the Cowboys dont necessarily need another star. However, if Flournoy continues to build on his impressive camp, Dallas may have found another dependable weapon capable of contributing immediately. A three-punch attack at the pass catching position makes for a very tasty offense heading into the regular season.Do you like what you've seen from Ryan Flournoy at Cowboys training camp so far? pic.twitter.com/TEIb7cMnLj DLLS Cowboys (@DLLS_Cowboys) August 6, 2026