Dallas Cowboys Rookie Shavon Revel Jr. Faces Tackling Troubles as Defense Seeks Answers

Dallas Cowboys rookie cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. is struggling. His tackling issues were highlighted during a recent NFL win. The third-round pick is now in concussion protocol after the game.The team activated Revel this season despite his recovery from a torn ACL. This decision has shown mixed results so far. According to longtime reporter Ed Werder, the rookie needs fundamental work.

Revel’s Rookie Season Exposes Development Gap

Revel played at East Carolina before being drafted. He suffered a significant knee injury there. The Cowboys still selected him, hoping for a future contributor.His seven appearances have been challenging. Opposing offenses have targeted him in coverage. Several poor tackle attempts have stood out on film.Ed Werder was blunt in his assessment. He stated Revel needs tackling lessons this offseason. Werder called some efforts “embarrassingly bad” following the Christmas Day game.

Cowboys’ Cornerback Room Headed for Major Overhaul

This situation compounds existing problems for Dallas. Starter DaRon Bland had a tough year and needs foot surgery. Star Trevon Diggs appears likely to leave in free agency.Another young corner, Caelen Carson, may also depart. This leaves the defensive backfield dangerously thin. The team must address this urgently.The Cowboys lack second and third-round draft picks in 2026. They own two first-round selections, however. Many analysts now expect them to use one on a cornerback.Revel’s bumpy rookie year adds pressure to that decision. The team cannot count on him as a sure thing for next season. His development path requires patience the roster may not afford.

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Shavon Revel Jr. has the physical tools but remains a project. His tackling issues underscore the Dallas Cowboys’ broader defensive needs. The front office faces a critical offseason to fix a secondary in flux.

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Who is Shavon Revel Jr.?

Shavon Revel Jr. is a cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys. He was a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He played his college football at East Carolina University.

Why was his rookie season challenging?

He was activated while still recovering from a torn ACL suffered in college. This meant he missed valuable offseason preparation. He has struggled with tackling fundamentals and consistency in coverage during games.

What did Ed Werder say about him?

Respected NFL reporter Ed Werder said Revel needs “tackling lessons.” He criticized several specific attempts as “embarrassingly bad” following a December game. This highlighted a key area for improvement.

How does this affect the Cowboys’ draft plans?

With other cornerbacks injured or leaving, the position is a major need. Revel’s struggles increase the urgency to find a reliable starter. The team may use one of its two 2026 first-round picks on a cornerback.

What is his current status?

Revel entered the NFL’s concussion protocol after the December 25th game. His availability for the final game of the season is uncertain. The team may opt to shut him down to ensure a healthy offseason.