Jalen Tolbert only has seven receptions for 71 yards this season, yet many believe he’s earned a bigger role. Coming off an enormously disappointing rookie campaign where Tolbert only collected two balls for 12 yards, his buzz in 2023 may seem odd to some.
The former third-round pick hasn’t offered any jaw dropping plays nor does he come with elite pedigree. Tolbert hailed from South Alabama where his national attention was limited and his jump to the pros was enormous, somewhat explaining his struggles as a rookie last year.
But over the offseason Tolbert dedicated himself to the craft and earned frequent offseason praise for his progression. He flashed in training camp and in preseason games, leading many to believe he’d be a decent piece to the offense in 2023. Yet, he’s logged just 150 offensive snaps.
150 actually sounds like a lot considering how infrequently he’s been targeted. The WRs getting the most looks in Dallas have been CeeDee Lamb, Michael Gallup and Brandin Cooks.
Calls to get Cooks the ball more often have been almost deafening. If Tolbert needs more as well, where are all these magical opportunities supposed to come from?