The rising rookie linebacker's dominant training camp hit a sudden roadblock in Oxnard. After showcasing versatile playmaking skills, the former Michigan standout's health now clouds his roster ascent.
OXNARD, Calif. - As the Dallas Cowboys began training camp in here Oxnard, a lot of the attention was on new coordinator Christian Parker and new defensive star Caleb Downs as the defense had a complete overhaul this offseason.
But now, as camp has gotten underway, we have another name to add to the list of newcomers who has developed into a headliner ...
And that's third-round pick Jaishawn Barham.
Off to a good start to camp in Oxnard, Barham has made his presence felt on the field, demonstrating that his conversion from being a pass-rusher at the University of Michigan to serving as a linebacker who can play the run, drop into coverage and - yes - pressure the QB pocket - might just be the real thing.
But on Thursday came a chunk of negative news, as Barham exited the practice field at training camp and then was escorted to the locker room due to an injury.
UPDATE: The Cowboys suggest it's a groin issue and they are not overly concerned about it.
At 6-2 and 240, Barham has spent the first two weeks here looking like a prototypical do-it-all inside linebacker ... so much so that I'm about ready to speculate that maybe Dallas doesn't need to overpay at all in its trade pursuit of Miami's Jordyn Brooks. (Yes, that story remains alive, as it should.)
What does head coach Brian Schottenheimer think of the player and his strengths?
“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.”
For rookies, it is all about stacking good days of production, and that is exactly what Barham is doing - and should continue to do, pending this positive update on his health comes to fruition.
We've heard from Schottenheimer, and from owners Jerry and Stephen Jones, and from Parker, all of whom have offered glowing praise for the former Michigan Wolverine.
Of course, the hard work is only beginning, and the avoidance of injury is part of the deal, too.
When the pads came on this week, to my eyes, Barham only elevated his game, and his chances of truly making a statement ... maybe in the form of eventually starting ahead of veteran newcomer Dee Winters alongside DeMarvion Overshown (who by the way was limited on this day with more leg soreness).
The Cowboys' draft class is highlighted by Downs, and by fellow first-rounder Malachi Lawrence. But if Jaishawn Barham is the real deal? The positive headlines will keep on coming.
