Ryan Flournoy’s Rise: How a Practice Squad Longshot Became a Key Weapon in the Cowboys’ Offense
When the Cowboys traded for George Pickens back in May, the move was seen as a bold push to give CeeDee Lamb a true running mate on the outside-and so far, it’s paid off in a big way. Pickens currently ranks third in the league in receiving yards (1,179), and his chemistry with Lamb has turned Dallas’ receiving corps into one of the most explosive duos in football.
But while the spotlight has rightfully shined on that pairing, there’s another name quietly carving out a role in this offense-and it’s one that almost no one saw coming: Ryan Flournoy.
From Cut to Contributor
Let’s be honest-Flournoy’s emergence wasn’t just unexpected, it was nearly unthinkable a few months ago. The Cowboys waived him during final roster cuts on August 28.
He cleared waivers, landed back on the practice squad, and didn’t officially join the 53-man roster until September 13. At that point, he was an afterthought in a receiver room that already had Jalen Tolbert, KaVontae Turpin, and Jonathan Mingo battling for the WR3 spot behind Lamb and Pickens.
Fast forward to December, and Flournoy has not only leapfrogged all three-he’s become a legitimate contributor in Dallas’ offense.
Earning His Way onto the Field
Since Week 5, Flournoy has averaged close to 35 offensive snaps per game, according to Pro Football Reference. That’s not full-time starter territory, but it’s a clear sign that he’s earned the trust of the coaching staff.
In Week 13 against the Lions, he logged a career-high 53 snaps. Yes, Lamb’s absence due to a concussion played a role in that uptick, but this wasn’t just a case of being in the right place at the right time-Flournoy has been making the most of his chances.
In Week 14, he topped 110 receiving yards for the second time this season, flashing the kind of big-play ability that catches a quarterback’s eye. And based on how Dak Prescott has looked his way in recent weeks, it’s clear that confidence is growing between the two.
More Than Just a Receiver
Flournoy’s production as a pass-catcher is only part of the story. What’s really helped him stick on the field is his willingness-and ability-to block.
According to Pro Football Focus, he owns the third-highest run-blocking grade (76.6) among receivers with at least 250 snaps. That’s a big deal in an offense that leans heavily on the run game to set up play-action.
He’s not going to be confused with Hines Ward or Larry Fitzgerald just yet, but Flournoy has shown he’s willing to do the dirty work. And in today’s NFL, where every snap counts and every role matters, that kind of versatility is how a sixth-round pick from Southeast Missouri State earns his keep.
Looking Ahead
With Jalen Tolbert fading out of the picture-he’s been a healthy scratch in recent weeks-and questions lingering about Jonathan Mingo’s long-term fit, Flournoy has a real opportunity to lock down the WR3 spot heading into 2026. And depending on what happens with Pickens in the offseason, his development could become even more important.
No one’s calling him a breakout star just yet. He’s played 519 career snaps and has under 500 receiving yards to his name. But the arrow is pointing up, and the Cowboys have clearly found something worth investing in.
Over the final month of the season, expect Dallas to give Flournoy more chances to prove he belongs-not just as a fill-in, but as a foundational piece of this offense moving forward. If he continues on this trajectory, the Cowboys might’ve uncovered more than just a depth piece-they might have a future difference-maker.