Cowboys training camp: Brock Hoffman playing above his undrafted status
The Dallas Cowboys had some good news at practice on Monday. Trevon Diggs returned to action after starting on the PUP list. It was his first time in team activities since sustaining an ACL tear last season. It’s a welcome sight for the Cowboys, considering their cornerback group. DaRon Bland was outstanding last season, earning All-Pro honors. Caelen Carson looks like a steal after being drafted in the fifth round. The Cowboys offense also looks good at camp led by its veterans, but what about the young guys? Which of the guys who at one time or another were on the fringe of the roster and showing their stuff? Which undrafted free agent had made waves at camp and is the “center” of our undrafted stock watch?
Brock Hoffman, IOL
NFL Exp. 3 yrs.
Brock Hoffman might be another example of the Cowboys hitting on a winner in the undrafted free agent market. Granted, the Cowboys didn’t initially pick up Hoffman after he went undrafted in 2022, but they swooped in after he was released from the Cleveland Browns practice squad that season. Within weeks, Hoffman worked his way on the active roster and, before long, started at both center and guard when needed in 2023. In short order, Hoffman has made an impression on several within the organization.
Here’s what quarterback Dak Prescott recently said about Hoffman:
“Brock’s the man,” quarterback Dak Prescott said. “It’s in his intensity. It’s in his focus, and then that allows the communication to be easier. He’s a guy that gets up there, knows his job responsibility, knows the calls, and then from there, he’s gonna jump on them. And if I want to change something, he makes sure it’s echoed and communicated to the rest of the guys, but there’s just no hesitation in it.”
Head coach Mike McCarthy echoed similar sentiments:
“Brock’s been an excellent leader with his responsibility,” McCarthy said. “I love his command. He has a great understanding of what we’re doing, and you have to have that as an anchor. It’s his first real opportunity, and he’s done a good job so far.”
Hoffman is entrenched in a battle for the starting center position with third-round pick Cooper Beebe after the spot was vacated by Tyler Biadasz, who signed with the Washington Commanders. Though many believed Beebe was the lead candidate for the job following the draft, Hoffman has consistently performed at training camp practices. Expect Hoffman and Beebe to get an extended look in the preseason for who will come out on top, but so far, Hoffman appears to have the edge. Regardless of what happens, the Cowboys have excellent depth, and with Hoffman’s versatility, he’s assured to be an essential part of the offensive line.