The Dallas Cowboys are still reeling from Week 1’s poor offensive performance, which included a worrying showing by the wide receivers.
On 42 passes from Cooper Rush and Dak Prescott, Dallas accumulated 198 passing yards. Prescott’s injury played a part in the success of the passing attack, but even before his thumb fracture, the Cowboys’ starter averaged just 4.6 yards per completion.
The Cowboys will be waiting for James Washington and Michael Gallup to heal from their injuries. Dallas might consider trading for a pass-catcher. Terrace Marshall Jr., wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers, is one option.
After being drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft, Marshall has had a difficult start to his NFL career. Marshall played in just three games during his rookie season in 2021. He was healthy, but he did not play in the 26-24 Carolina loss.
It feels like Marshall is being moved down the depth chart by the Panthers trading Laviska Shenault, a former Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver. A trade between the Dallas and Carolina would be a good idea.
Marshall, along with Ja’Marr Chase (and Justin Jefferson) was a highly-touted prospect for LSU. According to Sports Reference, Marshall had 23 touchdowns and 1302 receiving yards in his last two seasons.
NFL.com’s Lance Zuerlein described this 6’3” and 200-pound receiver, as “big, tall, and talented,” and a “natural tracker.” The Panthers drafted the 22-year old because he was a good fit for their profile.
His first season saw him play only 48% of the team’s offensive snaps in 13 games. Marshall had just 17 receptions in the entire season of Pro Football Reference. He accumulated 138 yards and scored no touchdowns.
This is a disappointing start for a second round pick. It is also worth noting that Marshall had injury issues. It doesn’t seem like Marshall will be a major part of Carolina’s 2022 plans, despite Marshall not getting any opportunities in Week 1.
Surprisingly, Marshall has been somewhat set by the Panthers with their trade for Shenault in August.
Carolina traded a Shenault seventh-round pick in 2023 and a Shenault sixth-round selection in 2024 for Shenault. Shenault has been producing at a higher rate than Marshall’s one-year NFL experience.
Dallas could use the Shenault deal to get Marshall moved. The Panthers might expect a slightly higher return because Marshall is younger and in his second season.
Marshall could be traded for two late-round picks, which would still feel fair. Carolina could move on without having to cut the receiver or let Marshall sit on the bench. It wouldn’t hurt Dallas assets.
Cowboys could get a receiver who has something to prove and potential for great upside. The offense’s Week 1 struggles should be a reason for Dallas to look at ways to improve the group.