Dallas Cowboys Trade Impact on Fantasy Football Strategy

2024 NFL Fantasy Football Column: Dallas Cowboys Offensive Shake-Up and Fantasy Implications

Jalen Tolbert: Hold or Drop After Cowboys’ WR Addition?

The Dallas Cowboys stirred the pot with a recent trade for wide receiver Jonathan Mingo, leaving fantasy managers scratching their heads over Tolbert’s role. Tolbert showed promise early in the season, posting 353 yards and three touchdowns, making him a solid daily fantasy sleeper. However, with Dak Prescott sidelined and Cooper Rush taking the reins, the Cowboys’ offense faces a significant downturn in efficiency. Many managers are left wondering if Tolbert, who once looked like a future Michael Gallup, is worth holding onto.

For fantasy purposes, Tolbert’s upside is severely capped without Dak. Rush hasn’t shown consistent productivity, and while Tolbert may see more targets if Dallas is trailing, he remains a risky play with a low ceiling. If you have stronger options on the waiver wire, this may be the week to let Tolbert go.

Betting Insight: Tolbert’s receiving yard props are likely to be low, but even then, betting the under may be a safe choice. With Mingo’s arrival and Rush’s inconsistency, it’s hard to see Tolbert surpassing modest yardage totals.

Cooper Rush: Can He Keep the Cowboys Competitive?

Rush steps in for Prescott, but history hasn’t been kind to him as a fantasy or DFS option. His past performances have generally been lackluster, and while the Cowboys are likely to play from behind, Rush hasn’t shown the ability to turn that into reliable production. While he’s known for his quarterback name, “Cooper Rush” might not be enough to save your fantasy team.

For fantasy managers, Rush is a desperation play, at best. While he’ll have CeeDee Lamb, Mingo, and possibly Tolbert as targets, the Cowboys’ passing game lacks the precision and consistency needed to trust him in lineups.

Betting Insight: Avoid betting on Cooper Rush’s passing yards or touchdown props. The Cowboys may move the ball more frequently on the ground or through short-yardage passes, limiting his fantasy and betting upside.

CeeDee Lamb’s Potential Downgrade with Dak Out

Lamb has been a top-tier fantasy wide receiver this season, but Dak’s absence puts his value in question. Lamb is still the primary target, but without Dak’s reliability, his production might take a hit. Managers who have been riding his consistent fantasy points may need to lower their expectations with Rush under center.

Lamb’s shoulder injury is also worth monitoring. If he’s limited or aggravates it mid-game, the Cowboys could struggle to generate offense altogether.

Betting Insight: Lamb’s yardage prop is one to watch. If the line is set too high, consider the under, as Rush’s lack of chemistry with Lamb could limit his output. However, if Lamb does suit up, his reception totals might still be worth a look due to sheer volume, especially in PPR formats.

Final Verdict: Proceed with Caution on Cowboys’ Skill Players

The Cowboys’ offense is in rough shape with Prescott out and Rush stepping in. Players like Tolbert and Lamb may see some volume, but the lack of efficiency makes them risky plays for both fantasy and betting purposes. Tolbert is a drop candidate, while Lamb should remain rostered but may deliver inconsistent results. Rush is not worth rostering or considering in most DFS formats, and his limitations could impact the fantasy value of every Cowboy.

In betting terms, stay away from high yardage and touchdown props on Dallas players until there’s a clearer picture of how the offense will function without Dak. This is a week to look for safer, more reliable options on your fantasy team and in your betting picks.

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