Cowboys Country

Dallas Cowboys ‘disrespected’ rookie receiver puts NFL on notice

The Dallas Cowboys found a highly motivated WR following the NFL draft.
Oregon Ducks wide receiver Traeshon Holden celebrates after a touchdown in the second half against the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Oregon Ducks wide receiver Traeshon Holden celebrates after a touchdown in the second half against the Ohio State Buckeyes. | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

It was surprising to see the Dallas Cowboys go through the entire 2025 NFL Draft without selecting a wide receiver.

Considered one of their greatest needs, Dallas didn’t adequately address the position in free agency either, which opens the door for a competition. Jalen Tolbert is currently the favorite for the WR2 spot, but with a new coaching staff in place, anything can happen.

MORE: What draft experts are saying about new Cowboys DE Donovan Ezeiruaku

That’s why Oregon’s Traeshon Holden was eager to sign with Dallas after going undrafted. Not only did he see an opening, but the team’s new staff includes his former receiver coach, Junior Adams.

Holden, who was one of the top wideouts to go undrafted, is known for being a hard worker and has always produced at a high level. Despite this, speed was a concern for the 6-foot-2, 205-pounder.

Oregon WR Traeshon Holden celebrates a pass reception as the Oregon Ducks host the Maryland Terrapins.
Oregon wide receiver Traeshon Holden celebrates a pass reception as the Oregon Ducks host the Maryland Terrapins. | Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

He doesn’t believe that should have kept him out of the draft, which is why he feels “disrespected” and is ready to prove the NFL made a mistake in ignoring him.

“I’ve always been the type to just work hard, but I feel disrespected," Holden said via Mauricio Rodriguez of A to Z Sports. "So now it’s time to make it happen."

MORE: Ex-NFL coach downplays concern about Cowboys' first-round draft pick's 'weakness'

Holden said he believes he’s one of the best receivers in the draft, and he’s ready to prove that to everyone.

Dallas has a long history of success with undrafted free agents, so Holden is in the right place to make good on his promise.

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Randy Gurzi
RANDY GURZI

Randy Gurzi is a graduate of Arizona State and has focused on NFL coverage since 2014.