Sep 4, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver KaVontae Turpin (9) carries the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first quarter of the game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

With Cee Dee Lamb sidelined, the Dallas Cowboys’ passing game will rely heavily on George Pickens as the main threat alongside tight end Jake Ferguson, who is also getting his fair share of targets. Pickens has already stepped up this season and continues to demand attention from defenses with his dynamic playmaking ability. His role ensures that Prescott’s throws will be spread out, but one of the receivers behind Pickens, either Jalen Tolbert or KaVontae Turpin, is set to benefit from Lamb’s absence and could put up strong fantasy numbers.

George Pickens, the Cowboys' top receiver with Lamb out, has been targeted heavily lately and serves as Dak Prescott’s primary option. His ability to attack downfield and make contested catches keeps defenses occupied, opening opportunities for other receivers. Jake Ferguson, the Cowboys’ tight end, is also a reliable pass catcher and expects a good volume of looks, making the Cowboys’ passing game well-rounded even without Lamb.

Jalen Tolbert has 10 catches for 101 yards on the year and came alive last game against Green Bay with four receptions for 61 yards. He looks poised to grow into a bigger role with his size and route-running skills, making him a strong candidate to benefit from the additional targets that will be freed up due to Lamb’s injury.

KaVontae Turpin boasts 10 catches for 159 yards and one touchdown this season. Known for his blazing speed and ability to create big plays, Turpin is a dangerous deep threat who can stretch the field and change games quickly. His speed allows him to turn short catches into explosive gains, and he is likely to see more opportunities as the lead receivers draw the bulk of defensive attention.

With Dak Prescott leading the league in passing yards and consistently throwing the ball all over the field, Tolbert and Turpin are both attractive options for fantasy managers looking to add starters or backups. Pickens remains the primary focus in the offense with Ferguson serving as a dependable target. Still, it is the potential breakout from either Tolbert or Turpin that fantasy players should watch closely in the coming weeks. One of these two could shine in Lamb’s absence and deliver big fantasy performances for those who add them now.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Tolbert or Turpin: Which one will help you elevate your fantasy team?

Reporting by Tyler Whitcomb, Touchdown Wire / Touchdown Wire

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