Despite the Dallas Cowboys’ passing offense presenting challenges in the early part of the season, key players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb have helped lead the team in adapting to the new “Texas Coast Offense.” Notably, tight end Jake Ferguson has emerged as a significant contributor in his second professional season, quickly becoming one of Prescott’s preferred targets.
However, in the Cowboys’ recent 28-23 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Ferguson acknowledged taking responsibility for a crucial mistake that impacted the game. Following a delay of game penalty, Ferguson failed to execute a key block that would have created an open opportunity for teammate Luke Schoonmaker. The controversial call nullified a potential late-game touchdown pass from Prescott to Schoonmaker.
Speaking about the mistake, Ferguson admitted, “I put that one on me, honestly. The play before was a delay of game. I just couldn’t hear … I’ve got to know in that situation what kind of play we’re going to call, what we’re thinking.”
.@dallascowboys it comes down to the details. Have to score from the +1. One side is picture perfect; one side doesnt get it done. #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/c3lURsV3cw
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) November 6, 2023
Despite this error, Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy has expressed praise for Ferguson’s overall growth and development. McCarthy emphasized the positive changes Ferguson has made to his body during the offseason, leading to increased physicality and durability in his gameplay. As a result, Ferguson’s snap count is on track to surpass last season’s, and he continues to improve week by week.
With 32 catches for 328 yards and three touchdowns so far this season, Ferguson’s performance has been a notable bright spot for the Cowboys. His connection with Prescott is visibly growing, as evidenced by his season-highs in targets (10) and yards (91) in the Week 9 loss to the Eagles.
Ferguson attributes this success not only to his relationship with Prescott but also to the offensive scheme devised by offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and coach McCarthy. Despite the setback in the Eagles game, Ferguson’s accountability and continuous improvement suggest a promising future for the tight end in the Cowboys’ evolving offensive strategy.