Fourteen years have passed since Miles Austin, the Monmouth University alum, took the NFL by storm in an unforgettable performance for the Dallas Cowboys against the Kansas City Chiefs during the fifth week of the 2009 season. At the time, Austin was a relatively unknown entity, a fourth-year professional who had accumulated a modest 393 receiving yards over more than three seasons, largely due to limited opportunities on the field.

However, injuries to the Cowboys’ receiving corps thrust Austin into the spotlight, and he seized the opportunity in spectacular fashion, racking up 10 catches for 250 yards and two touchdowns. This explosive performance was the catalyst for what would become a sterling career, showcasing Austin’s evolution from an undrafted free agent to a Pro Bowl receiver, amassing more than $40 million over his career.

Austin’s story is particularly relevant for Ryan Flournoy, the Cowboys’ recent draft pick from Southeast Missouri State. Like Austin, Flournoy enters the NFL without the fanfare that accompanies top draft selections, hailing from a lesser-known program and possessing raw athletic prowess that suggests untapped potential. Flournoy’s exceptional athletic traits are spotlighted by a Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.89, ranking him first among Dallas drafted wide receivers in team history, an indication of his elite physical capabilities.

Under the tutelage of the Bill Parcells-led Cowboys, patience and a keen eye for development allowed Austin to flourish, a strategy that Dallas appears poised to replicate with Flourino. Despite Flournoy’s athletic gifts, his rudimentary route-running skills and lack of collegiate film mean the Cowboys are starting from the foundation with the aim of molding Flournoy into an NFL-caliber receiver. This approach underscores a willingness to invest time and patience in raw talents with high ceilings, a philosophy that has paid off in the past.

Flournoy’s journey from a sixth-round pick to a potential staple in the Cowboys’ offense is fraught with challenges, reminiscent of other late-round selections who strive to defy the odds. Statistics reveal that a scant 5.63% of wide receivers drafted between 2000 and 2014 secured a starting role for four or more seasons, highlighting the steep path to success that Flournoy faces.

Despite these odds, the Cowboys see value in Flournoy’s developmental arc, much like they did with Austin. The focus for Flournoy is on refining his understanding and execution of the finer aspects of playing wide receiver at the professional level. With the right guidance and a commitment to development, Flournoy has the chance to emulate Austin’s success, proving once again that patience and perseverance can unearth NFL gems from the most unlikely places.