Cowboys Mailbag:Mick's Mail: 07/27

With a limit of 16 padded practices in training camp, do you think that's enough for teams to be able to confidently assemble a roster?

New defensive coordinator Christian Parker is trying to bring violence and attitude to this team. So who's "that dude"? Who is the guy who, if you had to walk into a rough bar at 2 a.m., you are picking on this current defense to make sure you get out in one piece?

I read your 20 Questions piece about whether the defense will be good enough to contend. Well, what does a successful defense look like to you? I haven't seen the Cowboys defense be constructed like this since I've started watching them. I love seeing all these run stoppers.

What are your thoughts on the battle for the fifth wide receiver spot? While I wouldn't mind seeing Traeshon Holden make the roster, I just have a feeling Anthony Smith will win the spot since he was a draft pick this year and he brings speed to special teams.

Who are the undrafted free agent signings you are excited to see at training camp?

Is there a certain player who you want to see make some plays when the pads come on? We all know what Caleb Downs is going to do, but is there anyone else? And it doesn't have to be just the rookies.

Of the UFL player signings in 2026, is there a player that we should keep an eye on who might make an impact on this roster?

We saw such passion from fans during the recent World Cup with constant singing, chanting and general cheering throughout every game. It looked like everyone was having such fun. Do you think the NFL, and in particular Cowboys fans, can ever reach that level of enthusiasm on game days?

Do you see anyone challenging KaVontae Turpin as a returner? Will he also have to stand out as a receiver to keep the job?

I feel better about this team than I have in a while, as do most fans. With that said, cornerback seems a major area of concern swimming in the pool of optimism. Tell me who you are comfortable with right now playing on the outside.

With defenses undoubtedly trying to find a way to slow down George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb this season, do you see a real possibility for Ryan Flournoy to get more opportunities and each of these three guys reaching 1,000 yards receiving this year?