The Dallas Cowboys made a significant move to bolster their wide receiver corps by acquiring George Pickens post-draft. Pickens has shown promise early in his tenure with the Cowboys, showcasing his skills and potential impact. His addition not only enhances the Cowboys' receiving options but also strengthens their offensive strategy as they aim for a successful season. The Cowboys' decision to pursue Pickens reflects a proactive approach to improve their roster and cater to quarterback Dak Prescott's needs.

The Dallas Cowboys are looking to bolster their secondary, which has faced injuries and positional uncertainties. With OTAs beginning, the team has added depth by acquiring cornerback Kaiir Elam from the Buffalo Bills, who was a first-round pick and has shown promise but has struggled recently. In his first year, Elam secured two interceptions but has since fallen out of favor, starting just six games over the past two seasons.

The Cowboys opted to trade fifth and seventh-round picks to bring him in, hoping that a fresh environment could reignite his potential and provide much-needed support in a position that remains in flux as they assess their roster post-draft.

Dynasty fantasy football is a game of risk and reward, particularly when navigating the treacherous waters of player injuries. However, savvy managers can capitalize on these situations by acquiring injured players at discounted prices before their return. With the 2025 season in mind, here are five injured players worth targeting:

1. **J.J. McCarthy (QB, Minnesota Vikings)** - After missing his rookie season due to a meniscus injury, McCarthy is set to take the helm for Minnesota in 2025. His impressive draft capital and the team’s commitment to him make him a prime candidate for fantasy success, especially with a talented supporting cast.

2. **Brandon Aiyuk (WR, San Francisco 49ers)** - Aiyuk’s 2024 season was marred by contract disputes and an ACL injury. Currently undervalued, he has significant upside and could rebound into a top-tier receiver role, particularly in an offense led by Kyle Shanahan.

3. **Dak Prescott (QB, Dallas Cowboys)** - Prescott dealt with injuries in 2024, leading to a drop in value. Yet, with multiple past seasons of 30+ touchdowns, he remains a solid QB2 option and presents a great buy-low opportunity for teams needing quarterback depth.

4. **Chuba Hubbard (RB, Carolina Panthers)** - Despite a late-season calf injury, Hubbard posted a career year in 2024. With reduced backfield competition following Jonathon Brooks’ injury, he should continue to be a key player in the Panthers’ offense.

5. **Kenneth Walker III (RB, Seattle Seahawks)** - Dealing with injuries in 2024, Walker still displayed elite efficiency metrics. With the Seahawks improving their offensive line and a new offensive coordinator, Walker has top-5 potential and makes for a solid buy this offseason.

The NFL is asserting its presence on Christmas Day, having scheduled a trio of games for December 25, 2025, marking a significant challenge to the NBA's long-standing holiday dominance. The NFL's lineup includes the Dallas Cowboys facing the Washington Commanders, the Detroit Lions squaring off against the Minnesota Vikings, and the Denver Broncos clashing with the Kansas City Chiefs in an exciting tripleheader.

Jason Kelce, former Eagles player, voiced his enthusiasm for NFL games during prime-time slots, expressing a desire for football to take center stage during major holidays. Meanwhile, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged the competition but remains unfazed, understanding the value of rivalry in keeping the league sharp. He hinted at the possibility of scheduling NBA games on Christmas Eve in the future, although he expressed concern over disrupting family traditions associated with the holiday.

The Dallas Cowboys face a critical gap at the slot corner position heading into the 2025 season following Jourdan Lewis's departure to Jacksonville. Despite a bustling offseason that included the addition of 13 new players and a promising draft, they lack a solid replacement for Lewis. With Trevon Diggs recovering from a knee injury and other rookies dealing with ACL issues, the Cowboys are left vulnerable. Mike Hilton, an experienced free agent, emerges as a viable solution, boasting a history of solid coverage and versatility. His presence could stabilize the secondary and allow for better boundary corner depth.