Addition of TY Hilton is paying hidden dividends for Dallas Cowboys

Wide receiver T.Y. Hilton is proving to be a savvy pickup by the Dallas Cowboys after a single game (and a single catch). Discussing Hilton’s impact off of the stat sheet, Dallas head coach Mike McCarthy noted on Tuesday that the veteran is already playing, and will continue to play, a big role in helping younger players as they move into the playoffs.

“Definitely, that’s a big part of his reputation coming in here,” McCarthy said of the former Colt ingratiating himself with younger players on the team. “I think just like anything, you talk about talent, production, to win games and to be part of what we’re about to get into in playoff victories, it’s definitely the connection of guys that have been there. There’s going to be… our rookie class, this is a new experience for them.

“All those things are awesome. You love to see veterans paying it forward.”

The former Indianapolis receiver has more playoff experience than most on the Dallas roster. From 2012 to 2020, he played in nine playoff games. Over those nine games, he accumulated 47 catches for 781 yards and three touchdowns.

Hilton shares warning for NFL teams following clutch play versus Eagles

Hilton sat out of game action in his first week with Dallas but in his debut on Saturday versus the Eagles, he came up with one of the most important plays of the game. Needing a first down on a 3rd and 30, the free agent addition brought down a catch for a gain of 52 yards.

The catch set Dallas up to tie and eventually win the game in the fourth quarter. After the 40-34 win over Philadelphia, Hilton said that it was on the Eagle defense for underestimating him during his comeback to the league.

“I told y’all all week if you just go stand there and try to get in my face then you’re crazy. I’m gonna run past you and that’s exactly what happened,” Hilton said. “I can still play. If you don’t think I can play, then that’s on you. I can still get open (and) I don’t have to be fast. I can be slow (and) I can still get open. But I’m still fast. Double (CeeDee Lamb) and leave me. Whatever you choose, you’re in trouble.”

The Cowboys signed Hilton on December 12th after he sat unclaimed through the offseason. The now 11-year veteran waited his turn and it has paid off for him and his new team already.

Hilton went on to warn Dallas’ other opponents to not underestimate him based on his listed age. He says he’s ready to make as many plays as possible and, as he works his way back into game shape, the Cowboys should only get better as they head into the postseason.

“Just because my age says I’m 33, it doesn’t mean I can’t still run. And I put it on tape today. So I look forward to getting better,” said Hilton. “I’m ready if they want me to play 40 or 50 plays. I can do it. So it’s up to them. I’ll be ready no matter what.”

On3’s Sam Gillenwater contributed to this report.