Dallas City News

One of the most approved moves of this offseason for Cowboys Nation came with the selection of Cooper Beebe in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The big and physical Kansas State offensive lineman fired up the fanbase with the idea that he would instantly add some toughness and a bit of nasty to the group of big guys up front.

While the selection of Beebe was a good one, some worried about the immediate fit as the team is already settled at the guard spot with Tyler Smith and Zack Martin handling the left and right, respectively. However, as some expected, Beebe will compete for the center job, a spot left vacant after the departure of Tyler Biadasz.

It sounds good in theory, but it won’t be easy for it to happen. Brock Hoffman is already on the roster and is by all accounts having a great offseason. Some have shifted their attention to the shiny new toy that is Beebe, but Hoffman won’t be so quick to relinquish what he and others think is a great opportunity for him as well.

Cowboys center battle of 2024

When the Cowboys didn’t take Graham Barton on Day 1 or Jackson Powers-Johnson early on Day 2, the feeling for some was that the center for this season may already be on the roster. With every passing pick, the idea of Hoffman becoming the guy became more real. But the selection of Beebe in the third round kicked off what should be an interesting training camp battle to watch.

Based on the draft position, the nod for the spot would seem to indicate Beebe’s way as Hoffman comes in as a UDFA who joined the team in the 2022 season. However, when you look closer it may not necessarily be as much as a given as some think.

Beebe has never taken a snap at center in a competitive game, setting up preseason action to be the first-ever live reps for the former Wildcat in his career. The challenge from kicking inside to center from guard isn’t impossible, but it isn’t a small task either. Add to the fact that the team likes Hoffman, and he brings a nastiness and experience to the group that McCarthy and other decision-makers trust.

Hoffman has been in the building for multiple seasons now and understands the opportunity in front of him. He is looking to take every chance he can to secure what he believes is his for this upcoming season.

It’s obvious that Beebe is going to be a big part of the future, and very well could be a massive part of their present too. However, despite the excitement, and the hope he becomes the next great Cowboys center much like the days of Travis Frederick, he’ll need to show it first, and that will come by way of a training camp between two individuals looking to leave their mark.

No matter who wins the job in Week 1, the Cowboys will be in good hands as a result. If Hoffman can hold off the young rookie, or if Beebe can snatch the job from a veteran, the Cowboys will feel good about how they have arrived at that decision based on the work both have put in.