Fan-Favorite Cowboys Rookie Jaishawn Barham Given Major Responsibility in NFL Debut

Dallas Cowboys rookie linebacker Jaishawn Barham will make his NFL debut in the preseason Week 2 game against the Arizona Cardinals and will be given a big responsibility, also.

Ahead of kickoff, head coach Brian Schottenheimer told sideline reporter Kristi Scales that Barham will be wearing the green dot for Dallas.

"Cowboys rookie (linebacker) Jaishawn Barham will be getting an opportunity to wear the green dot and call the defense tonight, according to (Kristi Scales)," The Athletic Jon Machota relayed.

Of course, wearing the green dot means Barham will be calling plays, which is a huge vote of confidence for a rookie and shows he has a good amount of trust from the coaching staff, which is a great sign when it comes to how he's developing.

The Cowboys entered the offseason with multiple question marks at linebacker, including the uncertainty around who would wear the green dot.

DeMarvion Overshown is slated to wear it when the season starts, but the Cowboys need to give themselves as many options as possible just in case an injury occurs.

It appears Barham is now one of those options, and the Cowboys have been giving others looks throughout training camp.

Jaishawn Barham's impressive training camp

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaishawn Barham. — Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaishawn Barham (55) goes through a drill during practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility in Frisco, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The third-round pick has missed some time in training camp with an injury, but Barham has been a consistent standout when he has been on the practice field.

We've seen Barham do a little bit of everything, with the rookie flashing his abilities as a run-stopper and pass-rusher, and he has even made some plays in coverage.

We're not sure the Cowboys could have asked for much more than what they have seen out of Barham thus far and the future is looking bright for him early on.

Jaishawn Barham's 2026 outlook

While Barham still has a chance to beat out Dee Winters for the starting job next to Overshown, chances are he's going to begin the season as the LB3.

That said, Barham should still have ample opportunities to see the field because of his versatility.

On top of being able to line up at inside linebacker, Barham has the ability to take snaps at edge rusher, which makes him an intriguing chess piece for defensive coordinator Christian Parker.

But, first things first, he's got to show that he's more than just a good practice player by showing out in the next two preseason games. That quest begins on Saturday night.

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