In the 2025 NFL Draft, not every talent had their name called, and one of those overlooked players has sent shockwaves through the media with a bold statement. Traeshon Holden, a former Oregon Ducks wide receiver and now an undrafted free agent (UDFA) with the Dallas Cowboys, didn’t hold back in expressing his frustration at being passed over by every team. With three powerful words—“I feel disrespected”—Holden ignited a fire within himself to prove that all 32 NFL teams made a mistake by not drafting him.
A Journey from Oregon to Dallas
Traeshon Holden was once a standout in the Oregon Ducks’ offensive lineup. With his speed, versatile catching ability, and relentless competitive spirit, he was expected to hear his name called during the 2025 NFL Draft. However, when the draft concluded, Holden shockingly went unselected, a result that left him feeling “hurt” and undervalued. In an exclusive interview with Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com, Holden candidly shared:
“I was hurt. That 24-hour rule, I was in pain. But now I’m here, and I’m ready to make things happen. I’m going to do everything I can to show people I belong… Prove everybody wrong. Everybody. I’m coming to get what’s mine.”
This statement not only exudes confidence but also serves as a declaration of war against those who doubted his abilities. After signing as a UDFA with the Dallas Cowboys, Holden was given a chance to prove himself at the rookie minicamp held in early May 2025 at The Star in Frisco, Texas.
Opportunity Amid Challenges
The wide receiver position for the Dallas Cowboys is currently a focal point for improvement. Beyond star CeeDee Lamb, the team lacks reliable options at the position, especially after not selecting any wide receivers in the 2025 draft. This opens the door for rookies like Holden, but it also places him in a highly competitive environment. Facing off against players like Jonathan Mingo, Jalen Tolbert, and Ryan Flournoy, Holden must seize every opportunity to impress the coaching staff, led by new head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
Holden is no stranger to adversity. He previously transferred from Alabama to Oregon, where he thrived under the guidance of wide receivers coach Junior Adams, who is now also with Dallas. This reunion could give Holden an edge in quickly adapting to the Cowboys’ offensive scheme.
A History of UDFA Success with the Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have a storied tradition of discovering and developing hidden gems from the UDFA pool. Names like Tony Romo, Drew Pearson, and more recently Terence Steele and Hunter Luepke have shown that going undrafted doesn’t equate to a lack of talent. Holden, with his burning desire to “get what’s mine” and an unyielding work ethic, has the potential to follow in the footsteps of these predecessors.
In the interview, Holden emphasized:
“I’ve always been a hard worker, but this feeling of being disrespected makes me even more determined. Now it’s time to make it happen.”
Expectations at Rookie Minicamp
The Cowboys’ rookie minicamp, which wrapped up in early May 2025, was the first stage for Holden to showcase his worth. This is a critical time for undrafted players to make an impression on the coaching staff. Holden has channeled his draft disappointment into motivation, turning it into “fuel for the fire” to propel him forward.
Though the road ahead is far from easy, with fierce competition and only a limited number of spots on the 53-man roster or practice squad, Holden has shown he’s unafraid of the challenge. He declared: “I’m coming to get what’s mine. That’s it.” These words are not just talk but a commitment from a rookie ready to fight for his place.
Conclusion
Traeshon Holden’s three-word statement, “I feel disrespected,” is not just a shocking moment but a testament to the determination and ambition of an undrafted rookie. With an opportunity at the Dallas Cowboys, Holden stands on the cusp of turning his NFL dreams into reality. Can he prove that all 32 teams were wrong to overlook him? Only time and his relentless efforts in training camp will answer that question. Let’s see if Holden’s fiery resolve is enough to light the path to a spot on the Cowboys’ active roster in the 2025 season.