One of the main reasons for Cowboys underachieving in 2017 was that they lost games when Tyron Smith was injured. His replacements, Chaz Green and Byron Bell, failed to deliver at swing tackle position. Dallas team might give them another chance in 2018, but a better option would be to look for a replacement outside their house.
The player that might fit perfectly in Cowboys offensive schemes is OT Cameron Fleming, currently with New England Patriots. He studied at Stanford University where he was red-shirted in his freshman year, the following year he was freshman All-American, All-PAC-12 honorable in his sophomore year, and All-PAC-12 second team as a junior. In 2014 he was selected in NFL Draft by New England Patriots in the fifth round at pick 140.
During his rookie season, he appeared in nine games, including playoffs where Patriots won Super Bowl XLIX. In 2015 he was released and signed with practice squad only to be promoted to the first team after Nate Solder was injured. During 2016 he played in all 16 games, but just as a backup/reserve tackle. This season he became starting right tackle after Marcus Cannon suffered an injury that sidelined him for the season.
Despite his emergence as a first team player in New England, Patriots will have to cut one of their players at the position, and between Nate Solder, LaAdrian Waddle and Cameron we say that Fleming will be the one released. He’s been an excellent blocker, but during his tenure in New England, he failed to cement himself a starting job in the off-season. So, if he hits the market, Cowboys should look to sign him as he would be an ideal fit for their swing tackle needs.
Fleming’s qualities lie in the fact that he’s an outstanding pass blocker, and has excellent balance. He has the ability to notice the pass rusher and to stop him in his tracks. Cameron Fleming is solid in running game, despite not being athletic as the rest of Cowboys lineup.
During his career, he’s been a good player, roaming at the outskirts of Pro Bowl. So far he’s played in 47 games, starting 20. His best years are ahead of him, and Cowboys offense would benefit from having him as a swing tackle in 2018.
