The NFL season, the rivalries, and all the trades, it’s a total rollercoaster ride. With the trade block open, most teams are taking the opportunity to add more strength to their squads. It’s like grabbing that one super Hot Wheel for your collection whenever you get the chance. This time on the trade block is WR Jonathan Mingo. The 23-year-old Mississippi native, who debuted with the Panthers, has had his time with them. Now, he’s moving on to his new team, the Dallas Cowboys.

The trade definitely caught him by surprise, but Mingo’s not letting that hold him back. Per Mingo, “It kind of blindsided me because my agent told me he didn’t think anything was going to happen. There’s a slim chance.” However, welcoming him to the team, CeeDee Lamb, the Cowboys wide receiver, praised his new teammate, saying he’s excited to share the field with him. “He’s big. Big as hell… Nice speed, nice size, and a great route runner.”

Jonathan Mingo was surely caught off guard when the Panthers traded him to the Dallas Cowboys ahead of the NFL trade deadline. While Mingo was waiting for his food to be delivered, Panthers GM Dan Morgan called him and broke the news. Whether he could enjoy his food, only he knows, but that call from Dan Morgan surely hurt him.

He never saw it coming that his former team would let him go. But that’s not something that will hold him back. Trades are a regular part of the NFL, and Mingo gets that.

What’s next for Jonathan Mingo?

While players often need time to settle into the NFL’s speed, the Panthers just weren’t up for waiting around with Mingo. During his time with them, Mingo did not live up to their expectations. His performance has been inconsistent, which is the opposite of what the Panthers hoped for when they signed him.

Joining the Cowboys offers Mingo a new beginning and a chance to learn from players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. He’s pumped about this fresh start with the Cowboys and is ready to make the most of it. He’s all set to prove to everyone that he’s got some serious skills on the field, “I’m happy to be a Cowboy, fresh start for me, new beginnings.” Although fans are not happy with this decision by the Cowboys’ management. With a 3-5 record, where making the playoffs seems like a long shot, picking up an unsuccessful player just doesn’t make sense. With QB Dak Prescott injured, things are looking even worse for the team.

On the bright side, there’s still hope for Mingo. It’s not like his career has ended. On his new team, he’ll get to play alongside Dak Prescott, whom he speaks highly of. He already had a practice session with his new squad and is starting to settle in.

Hopefully, he succeeds on this new journey of his and becomes the spark the Cowboys need to get back on track.