Despite some impressive individual numbers and proven talent, the Cowboys gave up a few too many plays down the field last year. But now in Year 2 under defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo, and with most of that talent returning, the Cowboy cornerbacks could be primed for a step forward in 2024.
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Who’s Back
Although they lost some depth by way of the transfer portal, the Cowboys return both of their starting corners from last season. Korie Black returns as the Cowboys’ most experienced starter on defense, starting 26 games over the last two seasons, and Cam Smith is back with 17 starts to his name.
DJ McKinney left by way of transfer portal after starting the Cowboys’ bowl game against Texas A&M, but redshirt sophomore Kale Smith is back after appearing in all 14 games last year.
Also in the mix are Jordan Reagan, De’kelvion Beamon, Kenneth Harris and RJ Lester.
Number That Matters: 16
Korie Black allowed only 16 receptions when targeted last season, according to Pro Football Focus. That was good for third in the FBS for those with at least 350 coverage snaps.
CB Outlook
Despite those individual efforts, the Cowboys ranked dead last in the Big 12 in passing defense, as well as long passing plays allowed of 10-, 20- and 30-plus yards. That’s not going to cut it in the Big 12.
There is more to pass defense than just an individual cornerback’s cover skills, but the onus will be on these veterans to take a step forward. OSU is also expected to move to more four-man front formations to try and put more pressure on the opposing QBs, which should help on the backend.
Spring CB Depth Chart Prediction
Here’s how the cornerback pecking order could shake out as of what we know at the end of spring practice.
CB1: Korie Black
CB1: Cam Smith
CB2: Kale Smith
CB2: Kenneth Harris
Read this original article at Pistols Firing Blog.