There are a lot of things to watch in Oxnard, and now the rise of Barham can be added to the list.
As the Dallas Cowboys began training camp in Oxnard, a lot of the attention was on Christian Parker and Caleb Downs as the defense had a complete overhaul this offseason.
Others like Malachi Lawrence weren't mentioned nearly as much, given the attention on Downs.
But now, as camp has gotten underway, there is another name to add to the list of players to watch this offseason, and that's third-round pick Jaishawn Barham.
Having a good start to camp, Barham has made his presence felt on the field, blowing up a play, having a would-be sack on Dak Prescott, and then covering on a wheel route, showcasing his athleticism.
Looking like your prototypical inside linebacker, Barham has made some serious noise in the last couple of days in Oxnard...even if he is quiet off the field.
Yes, there are no pads, and that will be the true test of Jaishawn, but for a player who just always seems angry due to the look on his face, it is clear he's all business in his first training camp.
But what has head coach Brian Schottenheimer seen from Barham in Oxnard?
“I would say his ability to apply the things we're coaching,” Schottenheimer said. “We're putting him in some different spots, which is really cool. But, I'd say that's been the thing that's been most impressive. You see and know the physicalness, but the ability to pick it up and apply it, I think has been great.”
Having made play after play, Barham even had a PBU at the goal line, as he continued to be disruptive for Parker's defense.
For rookies, it is all about stacking good days of production, and that is exactly what Barham is doing.
We've heard from Schottenheimer, Jerry, and Stephen Jones, along with Parker, all of whom have offered glowing praise for the former Michigan Wolverine. But the hard work is only beginning, and for some, Dallas might have found a gem at linebacker, and one who can moonlight on the edge.
However, when the pads come on, that is Barham's chance to truly make a statement, and if he can be just as impactful in pads, then the Cowboys' draft class, highlighted by Downs, might have another stud in the room as well.
Jaishawn is off to a great start in Oxnard. Now, he's got to maintain the rage.
