Dallas Cowboys rookie linebacker Jaishawn Barham is getting thrown right into the fire in his first NFL preseason action, and he’s not just taking snaps - he’s being asked to run the defense.
Barham will make his debut in preseason Week 2 against the Arizona Cardinals, and before kickoff, head coach Brian Schottenheimer told sideline reporter Kristi Scales that the rookie will wear the green dot for Dallas. That means Barham will be the one calling the plays, a significant sign of trust for a first-year player.
"Cowboys rookie (linebacker) Jaishawn Barham will be getting an opportunity to wear the green dot and call the defense tonight, according to (Kristi Scales)," The Athletic Jon Machota relayed.
For the Cowboys, that assignment fits into a bigger picture. The team entered the offseason with plenty of uncertainty at linebacker, including who would handle the green dot role. DeMarvion Overshown is expected to wear it when the regular season begins, but Dallas has spent training camp testing out different options in case injuries force the team to pivot.
Barham has emerged as one of those options. The third-round pick has dealt with an injury during camp, but when he’s been available, he’s stood out. He’s shown up in multiple ways, making plays as a run-stopper, getting after the quarterback as a pass-rusher and even contributing in coverage.
That kind of versatility is exactly why Barham has been such an interesting piece for this defense. He can line up at inside linebacker, and he also has the ability to rush off the edge, giving defensive coordinator Christian Parker another movable part to work with.
There’s still a battle going on for the spot next to Overshown, with Barham competing against Dee Winters. Even so, the more likely opening is that Barham begins the season as the LB3.
That wouldn’t mean a small role, though. His versatility should keep him on the field often.
The next step is proving it in games. Barham has looked like a steady practice standout, but now he has to carry that into preseason competition over the final two games. That test starts Saturday night.
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