OXNARD, Calif. - The Cowboys hit the field again on Monday after a day off with a padded practice that included the first reps of camp by Trevon Diggs.
Here's a few observations by the staff writers:
Seeing Trevon Diggs back in full pads is kind of a big deal, as Ron Burgundy would say. What's even better is the fact the First-Team All-Pro wasn't wearing them for show, but instead to get active, and that's what he did. He's obviously on a rep count right now, but seeing him in coverage with the first team in 7-on-7 drills and also getting a PBU or two means he's progressing well toward returning to full form; and that will be massive for Mike Zimmer's defense. - (Patrik Walker)
- Trevon Diggs made his return to live reps on Monday as he participated in one period of 7-on-7 drills. Early on, the big standout feature of Mike Zimmer's defense has been pre-snap disguises, and Diggs stepped right in and applied that new wrinkle to the outside on his first rep. He followed it up a few plays later with a pass breakup across the middle. - (Nick Harris)
- - Eric Kendricks missed the last couple of practices with tightness in his back but the All-Pro linebacker was back in the mix on Monday, in full pads and moving well throughout the afternoon. Off to a blazing hot start in camp, the only thing that could seemingly slow down Kendricks was some sort of ailment, but he now has a shot at being on the field when the Los Angeles Rams walk into Oxnard for the joint practice on Thursday. - (Patrik Walker)
- - It was another good day in run defense from Mazi Smith. He's beginning to quickly stack those as camp rolls along thanks to the added weight and commitment to improving the speed of his get-off on the snap, as well as coaching from both Jeff Zgonina and Greg Ellis. On Monday, there was one play in particular that put his progression on display: when Smith bull rushed Brock Hoffman then shed him to fill the run lane at the last second — forcing Ezekiel Elliott to run right into a brick wall. - (Patrik Walker)
- Dak Prescott had arguably his best throw of training camp on a deep shot to Jalen Tolbert on the right side that beat DaRon Bland for a big gain. Prescott had a strong day as he finds a nice rhythm in Oxnard. - (Nick Harris)
- The pre-snap communication on both sides of the ball echoed throughout the River Ridge Complex on Monday, as Brock Hoffman was loud in his declarations and rookie Marist Liufau stood out with his communication as well. It's been emphasized from the coaching staff, and you see that being applied as we head into week three of practice. - (Nick Harris)
