Cowboys WR 'disrespected' after brutal contract negotiations
Context:
Traeshon Holden, a wide receiver from Oregon, signed with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent, receiving no guaranteed money and only a $3,000 signing bonus, which he deemed as disrespectful. Despite the challenging terms, Holden is motivated to prove himself and rise within the Cowboys' wide receiver ranks, which lack depth beyond star player CeeDee Lamb. Previously, Holden played three seasons at Alabama and two at Oregon, where he showcased his potential with 45 catches for 718 yards and five touchdowns in 2024. Both Holden and fellow undrafted free agent Josh Kelly have an opportunity to make an impact, as the Cowboys did not draft any receivers this year. If Holden can leverage his determination and talent to secure a key role, it could significantly enhance the team's passing game, which is in need of additional dynamic options.
Dive Deeper:
Traeshon Holden signed with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent, receiving a minimal $3,000 signing bonus and no guaranteed money, a situation he finds disrespectful but motivating.
Holden, who played three college seasons at Alabama and two at Oregon, ended his college career in 2024 with impressive stats, including 45 catches for 718 yards and five touchdowns.
The Cowboys' wide receiver lineup lacks depth beyond CeeDee Lamb, as they did not draft any new receivers, creating opportunities for undrafted players like Holden and Josh Kelly to step up.
Holden was a four-star recruit when he joined Alabama, indicating his long-standing recognition as a talented player, which he aims to prove in the professional league.
The Dallas Cowboys, known for their tough negotiation tactics, could significantly benefit from Holden's potential breakout performance, providing a much-needed boost to their passing game.
Holden's determination to prove himself stems from the perceived slight in his contract negotiations, suggesting he could bring a unique energy and drive to the team.
A successful transition from a $3,000 signing bonus to a key role within the NFL would be a remarkable achievement for Holden, aligning with the Cowboys' need for additional playmakers.
The Dallas Cowboys can be tricky negotiators.
Just ask one of their newest wide receivers.
Oregon's Traeshon Holden, an undrafted free agent, signed with Dallas for no guaranteed money and a team-low $3,000 signing bonus.
“I’ve always been the kind to just work hard in general, but it’s just... I feel disrespected. So now it’s time to make it happen,” Holden told Joseph Hoyt of All City DLLS.
Holden spent his first three college seasons at Alabama before two years with the Ducks.
In 2024, Holden had 45 catches for 718 yards and five touchdowns.
The Cowboys have lots of question marks on the WR depth chart behind CeeDee Lamb, yet didn't draft any receivers.
Holden and Texas Tech's Josh Kelly were both brought on board as undrafted free agents.
When Holden went to Alabama, he was a four-star recruit. So he's been highly thought of for a long time.
“I feel like I was one of the best receivers,” Holden said of his draft fate, “and now I can just show everybody I am.”
If he somehow went from $3K to a key NFL role, it'd be quite the accomplishment. Dallas would certainly welcome a breakout receiver given its current passing game state.
Lamb needs a friend or two in the receivers room. Maybe Holden could actually bring a different kind of energy that the Cowboys don't have, given the apparent massive chip he now has on his shoulders.
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