KaVontae Turpin put himself on the NFL map during the 2022 preseason. After a punt return and a kick return in the same game, there was no doubt that the Dallas Cowboys had to sign this speedster to the full-time roster.

Since then, Turpin has had a pretty successful career. He was first-team All-Pro return specialist last season and has two Pro Bowls in three years to boot. He has even carved out a role on the offense. Now, though, Turpin might have some competition on his radar thanks to Dallas’ fifth-round pick, Jaydon Blue.

At Texas, Blue was known for his speed and his ability to make plays in the open field. While many in the NFL media have praised Blue for being an absolute steal, Nick Harris from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram made an observation that proves Dallas has big plans for their rookie running back.

Cowboys had rookie RB Jaydon Blue in unique role at OTAs

Harris went on 105.3 The Fan to make an interesting observation that might be huge starting in preseason play. Blue has been participating with the second and third teams, but also catching balls from All-Pro punter Bryan Anger.

“We’ve seen some kickoff returns, punt return stuff off of Bryan Anger’s foot a couple of times with Jaydon Blue too. So, maybe that’s a potential role for him in the preseason. ”

Nick Harris

There is no doubt that Turpin should still be the Cowboys’ primary return man. He is the best in the league, after all.

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Beyond that, Brian Schotteheimer has to find a way to make Turpin a full-time wide receiver. As Cowboys fans have seen before with Cole Beasley, smaller speedy receivers can become one of Dak Prescott’s favorite security blankets in the middle of the field.

Blue catching punts on special teams tells us that Dallas wants to get him the ball by any means necessary. There should be a spot for Blue on the offense as well, and with questions regarding the potential efficiency of Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, Blue might be the guy to eventually take over as RB1 in the future.

This is all just observation for now, and Turpin is one of the most dangerous return specialists in the NFL, so Blue does have a lot on his plate if he plans on competing for some special teams reps.

If Blue is as good as adverstised, Turpin could step into a bigger role as a receiver. It is still early, but Blue is already creating good problems for the Cowboys.