The Dallas Cowboys’ 2017 rookie class may not have had the immediate impact that the 2016 class did, but they certainly provided reasons to be optimistic about the future. From finding starting-caliber defensive backs in Chidobe Awuzie, Jourdan Lewis, and Xavier Woods, to finding a potentially game-breaking offensive/special teams weapon in Ryan Switzer, the 2017 draft looks to be rather successful despite a questionable first round pick.

The Cowboys Instagram page shared a stat which supports the optimism for Switzer as a returner, stating that he was the only player in the league this season to record 600-kickoff-return yards and return a punt for a touchdown.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BeRvlf5A4c8/?taken-by=dallascowboys

This is a bit of a specific stat garnered for their player, but it still shows that Switzer had an effective year as a returner. While there were certainly growing pains early, Ryan Switzer became more consistent and reliable in the return game as the season wore on.

And, of course, he contributed to the Cowboys beat-down of the Washington Redskins with his punt return touchdown. When he finally got the chance to play significant snaps at receiver during the season finale, he flashed more signs of his talent.

Hopefully year two for Ryan Switzer will feature even more big plays: this time coming from the slot, on offense, rather than just on special teams.