The Facts: Escobar played in all 16 games during his rookie season, catching nine passes for 134 yards and two touchdowns. But his snaps were limited for one major reason – he needs to become a better blocker. To accomplish that goal, bulking up in the team's weight room was a big part of Escobar’s off-season regimen.
Diehards Line:In fact, new TEs coach Mike Pope, HC Jason Garrett and veteran TE Jason Witten have all mentioned noticing Escobar’s added strength recently. Witten has reached nine Pro Bowls and caught 879 passes because he’s been effective in both the running and passing game. To become more involved in the offense, Escobar must do the same. According to Witten, the 23-year-old is on the right path. “We know he can run the seams and can do some things in the passing game, but we need him to be solid in there [on the line],” Witten said. Whatever playing time Escobar can garner, there's no questioning his receiving skills. “He’s got a flytrap for hands,” Pope said. “He has tremendous catching ability. He’s got those basketball-type skills. He can contort his body and make the acrobatic catches. He’s a very, very high percentage catcher. ..." The only question seems to be that of opportunity.