With OTAs just a month away, the Dallas Cowboys are moving into a critical phase of the offseason. The newest members of the roster began adapting to The Cowboys Way during rookie minicamp just over a week ago, but one player in particular has already captured fans’ attention.
It isn’t just his massive 6-foot-8, 300-plus pound frame that has people talking; it was his post-minicamp interview. Former Kentucky Wildcat OT Shiyazh Pete has emerged as a standout, carrying himself with a calm, philosophical demeanor that seems well beyond his years.
Pete has already made history as the first Navajo Nation native to reach the NFL, but he remains incredibly grounded.
“To put on the star is, again, surreal,” Pete noted. “But I have to earn that star. I wouldn’t say I’m an official Cowboy yet. I have yet to meet the veterans here and understand the culture.”
His journey at The Star is just beginning, and the mix of his physical tools and humble mindset makes him a prospect to watch closely as summer approaches.
Shiyazh Pete Pro Day Measurement
HT: 6-foot-9
WT: 309 pounds
Arm length: 34″
40-yard dash: 5.46 seconds
10-yard split: 1.89 seconds
20-yard split: 3.08 seconds
3-cone drill: 8.06 seconds
Vertical Jump: 28 1/2″ inches
Broad Jump: 88.0″ inches
Games Watched: vs Toledo & vs Florida
Strengths
For a player of his size, Pete is fairly nimble, showing fluidity in his lateral movements and mirroring well in pass protection. He can effortlessly flick his hips to recover against edge rushers. On film, he showcases a consistent ability to get to the second level against linebackers. While he isn’t known for a “dominant” physical trait, he is a high-IQ technician with the ability to process stunts and twists quickly; consequently, he rarely gets flagged. In the run game, Pete plays with good leverage and a solid base, providing enough drive to wash defenders out of the play. He thrives specifically in zone blocking schemes.
Weaknesses
He possesses the build, and when you watch either the Florida or Toledo game, you can see he struggled against bull rushers and those who can get under his pads due to an inconsistent anchor and center of gravity. To address this, he must enhance his lower-body strength to avoid being pushed back at the next level. Next, we have his hand placement; at times, his hands get too wide, which exposes his chest and allows defenders to penetrate. This is a common issue for taller offensive linemen, as he tends to play too high, resulting in a loss of leverage. This makes him a target for power-based edge rushers. All of these aspects can be refined, especially if he aspires to have a shot in the NFL.
Where does he fit on the Cowboys?
Pete possesses all the physical attributes and agility needed to be a swing tackle, showcasing significant potential. However, his first year in the league will likely see him on the practice squad. The Cowboys still have OT Nate Thomas and drafted Penn State’s Drew Shelton in the fourth round this year. This makes it an unlikely scenario for him to secure a backup position on the 53-man roster, primarily due to his insufficient functional strength and leverage as an offensive tackle.
His best opportunity lies in the practice squad, where he can develop and seize every chance that comes his way. You never know when an opportunity might arise to join the active roster.
This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys UDFA shows temperment to be diamond in the rough for needy OL
Reporting by Kenneth Ball, Cowboys Wire / Cowboys Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
