Shemar James' Rollercoaster Rookie Season Shows Upside for Cowboys

Cowboys fifth-round LB Shemar James had a 'rollercoaster' rookie season, finishing with 91 tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 forced fumble in 14 games. After an initial slow start, he recorded 15 tackles in Week 5 and returned to full-time snaps late in the season despite mid-season dips. While PFF grades were low overall, his strong pass-rush grade (71.3) and demonstrated range suggest significant upside if he can improve tackling and run fits for 2026.