John Stephens Jr. is back in the Cowboys fold, aiming to ease through a comeback after ACL injuries that kept him out of key moments in preseason the last two years. Dallas expects a cautious ramp, with roughly 40 preseason snaps spread over three games, starting against the Rams at SoFi Stadium.

Stephens has flashed in past preseasons—62 yards with a TD in 2023 and 74 yards on eight catches last year—suggesting a real ceiling if health cooperates. Luke Schoonmaker praised his work ethic and ability to translate coaching points to the field as he nears his first live action since rehab.

With Jake Ferguson likely to sit in the opener and Brevyn Spann-Ford sidelined, Stephens could get a meaningful handful of reps as he re-enters the offense. Dallas is balancing development with caution, hoping this once-promising tight end can re-establish himself in the rotation.

The piece casts Stephens as a potential late-season breakout if health holds and he seizes any early opportunities in a TE room that includes Schoonmaker, Ferguson, and Spann-Ford. Fantasy managers should monitor his preseason workload and health signals as a barometer for 2025 upside.

As the Dallas Cowboys continue their training camp in Oxnard, California, the team's preparation is evident with key players showcasing their skills in joint practices against the Los Angeles Rams. Tight end John Stephens Jr. displayed great camaraderie with Rams linebacker Tony Fields II, highlighting the competitive yet respectful atmosphere of the practices. The offensive line, led by center Cooper Beebe and guard Nate Thomas, effectively blocked for quarterback Dak Prescott, who was also showing off his passing accuracy during drills. Running back Javonte Williams impressed with his speed, navigating through the Rams' defense, while receivers CeeDee Lamb and Jalen Tolbert made notable catches. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer praised the team's efforts, indicating a solid foundation as they gear up for the upcoming season.

Dalvin Cook is set to make his debut with the Dallas Cowboys this Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. After being signed to the practice squad prior to the season, Cook's opportunity comes as the Cowboys struggle with the league's worst rushing average.

Coach Mike McCarthy has indicated that Cook is ready to contribute. Despite a challenging previous season with the New York Jets, where he totaled just 214 yards, Cook's elevation raises questions about the team's running back lineup for the game.

The Dallas Cowboys are facing a tumultuous period following their heavy loss to the Detroit Lions. Owner Jerry Jones has publicly questioned the team's performance, while Hall of Famer Troy Aikman criticized the receivers' route running.

As the Cowboys prepare for a crucial game against the San Francisco 49ers, they are dealing with injuries, including a significant one to tight end John Stephens Jr., who has torn his ACL for the second consecutive year. Coach Mike McCarthy emphasized the importance of maintaining focus amidst these challenges.

Quarterback Dak Prescott is also in the spotlight for his recent engagement, while kicker Brandon Aubrey will juggle jury duty with his game responsibilities. Pro Bowl players Micah Parsons and DaRon Bland are both facing setbacks due to injuries, complicating the team's preparations.

The season has ended prematurely for Dallas Cowboys tight end John Stephens Jr. after he tore his left ACL during practice. This injury mirrors the one he sustained last season, causing him to miss the entire year.

Stephens, who transitioned from an undrafted wide receiver at Louisiana-Lafayette, was expected to be a valuable asset alongside Jake Ferguson at tight end. However, his potential will remain unrealized as he prepares for surgery and has yet to play in an NFL game since joining the Cowboys in 2023.