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Asim Richards came to the Cowboys as a somewhat unique prospect. Selected No. 169 overall, Richards was neither a high potential developmental guy nor was he a polished plug-and-play guy. He was something of a tweener.
Given his three years of starting experience at LT in college and his continued work in Dallas on the left, it’s understandable he’s penciled in there once again in 2024. But that might be a mistake. Given the situation on the Cowboys line, bigger needs and better opportunities could be awaiting Richards at RT.
6-foot-4, 309-pounds, Richards came to the Cowboys with the size but not the strength. Dane Brugler’s scouting profile highlighted his limitations in lower body flexibility and his weaknesses in technique. But what was clear from his college tape was he was a batter pass protector than run blocker and overall, he was steadily improving and yet to hit his developmental plateau.
The North Carolina offensive lineman had 38 games starting experience with the Tar Heels, 37 of which were at the all-important left tackle spot, which is where he best fit as a pro.
The rookie didn’t get many opportunities. The Cowboys two starting tackle remained fairly healthy most of the year, allowing Richards to develop in the background. Tabbed as a left tackle, 27 of his 39 snaps on the offensive line came at the LT position making him an early favorite to back up the rookie Tyler Guyton on Dak Prescott’s blindside.
It seems clear, the aforementioned Guyton is the future of the LT position in Dallas. Drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft, Guyton will be given every chance to succeed at LT this year and going forward.
The right side is a completely different issue. Terence Steele has been a hot conversation all offseason. His sketchy 2023 season makes 2024 do-or-die for the 27-year-old RT. With an out in his contract next spring, the Cowboys aren’t tied to Steele like they are Guyton. If Steele stumbles, there will be an opening at RT and that’s something Richards could take advantage of.
Switching sides is much easier said than done, of course. Not many players can flip between left and right at a moment’s notice which is why the traditional swing tackle position has been steadily phasing out around the league. It’s for this reason Richards should start the process now.
Given his experience at North Carolina and Dallas, Richards can’t currently be expected to fill in at RT – even in a jam. He’s played exclusively on the left. Early work in training camp could pay off down the road. The odds are much better the Cowboys will be looking for a new RT before they’re looking for a new LT, so the strategy is sound.
Hopefully Steele bounces back to his preinjury form and Richards isn’t needed to start anywhere. Richards can just focus on what he does best and fill in at LT if something should happen to Guyton. But contingency plans are important and there’s a very real possibility the Cowboys will be in the RT market much sooner than the other side.