FRISCO, Texas – After being traded to the Cowboys in March, cornerback Kaiir Elam has kept his head down and gone to work with his new team in Dallas ahead of his fourth NFL season with a much-needed fresh start.
"I feel like the energy here is something I've never been a part of," Elam said. "I love the enthusiasm, and also I would just say the energy from the coaching staff, they actually make you feel like they care, and that's something that's very exciting."
In the media's viewing of the Cowboys' OTAs on Tuesday, Elam stood out amongst the cornerbacks with several PBUs while running with the first team defense. With Trevon Diggs and third-round pick Shavon Revel Jr. recovering from major injuries, Elam has an opportunity to step into a big role for Dallas' defense in his first year with the team.
First, he wants to prove his consistency on a daily basis to himself, his teammates and the Cowboys' coaching staff.
"I was just blessed to come here, I don't really have too many huge expectations that I shout out loud," Elam said. "I just try to be a consistent day every day. When my teammates and my coaching staff see the film, I want them to see a consistent dog every day."
Elam's three seasons in Buffalo were full of highs and lows throughout the process, and in Dallas, the coaching staff has made him feel more compelled to ensure everything is correct on the field and in the classroom.
"I thought it was a pretty smooth transition, they made it super, not easy, but easier to transition because a lot of people were willing to help," Elam said. "With the coaching staff having great energy and enthusiasm, I felt eager to ask questions, so I was just appreciative of that."
In working with defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, cornerbacks coach David Overstreet and the rest of the Cowboys' defensive staff, Elam has picked up a lot on the mental side of the game and trying to win reps before they even start.
"All aspects of the game, just playing the game before the game is even played," Elam said. "Being able to eliminate routes and also expect what's coming so you don't have to play with your full athleticism, you can play with your mind first."
The process is still far from over, with plenty of work to be done still on the field and in the meeting room for Elam as he works towards a bigger role or even a starting job at corner for the Cowboys in 2025.
