Bills defensive back Kaiir Elam pulls in a throw as he works on individual drills. Shawn Dowd/Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK

Dallas Cowboys biggest surprise player could fill a massive need

Originally posted on Dallas Cowboys on SI
By Randy Gurzi | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 12:49 PM ET

The Dallas Cowboys swung multiple trades this offseason, with their addition of George Pickens generating the most buzz. Their other moves, however, could prove to be just as impactful.

Linebacker Kenneth Murray was added in a trade with the Tennessee Titans and could prove vital in run defense. They also struck a deal with the Buffalo Bills for cornerback Kaiir Elam, a former first-round pick looking for a fresh start.

So far, Elam has taken advantage of the opportunity. He’s adapted well to Dallas, with ESPN’s Todd Archer naming him the Cowboys’ biggest surprise player this offseason.

“He had multiple interceptions and dropped two more. He also showed the ability to run with receivers. Maybe things change when the pads come on in training camp, but given the uncertainty the Cowboys have at cornerback with Trevon Diggs and third-round pick Shavon Revel Jr. working back from knee surgeries, they need Elam to be a factor.” - Todd Archer, ESPN

Dallas is hopeful that Elam will be their third cornerback with Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland as CB1 and CB2. Injuries, however, could force him into a more prominent role early on.

It appears he’s up to the challenge, and if that remains the case throughout the year, this could go down as a major coup for general manager Jerry Jones

This article first appeared on Dallas Cowboys on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: