It has been a transformative offseason for the Dallas Cowboys, particularly for their defensive line. Facing the departure of several key players, team owner and general manager Jerry Jones has swiftly moved to replenish and fortify the defensive front.
Significant Losses
The Cowboys endured the loss of edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore. Armstrong and Fowler's exit to the Washington Commanders was particularly impactful, stripping the Cowboys of two capable edge defenders. Meanwhile, Hankins transitioned to the Seattle Seahawks and Gallimore found a new home with the Miami Dolphins.
Strategic Moves by Jerry Jones
In response to these significant departures, Jerry Jones wasted no time orchestrating a series of strategic moves. On August 15, the Cowboys brokered a trade with the New York Giants, exchanging a 2026 sixth-round pick for veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and a future seventh-round pick. This action was swiftly followed by the signing of veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson, showcasing a concerted effort to reinforce the defensive line.
Veteran Addition: Linval Joseph
Perhaps the most substantial addition to the Cowboys' defensive front came with the signing of Linval Joseph, a 14-year NFL veteran. Joseph brings a wealth of experience, having played for several teams, including the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, Joseph's presence is formidable.
Selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, Joseph has accumulated an impressive 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles over 186 career games, which includes 170 starts. His career highlights feature Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 while with the Vikings, and a Super Bowl victory with the Giants in his second NFL season in 2011.
The Cowboys' investment in Joseph, a one-year contract that includes $2.5 million guaranteed and could escalate to $4 million with incentives, underscores their belief in his capability to influence both on and off the field. At 35 years old, his veteran leadership is expected to play a crucial mentoring role for Dallas’s 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
Implications for the Defense
The restructuring of the defensive line comes after a season where the Cowboys' run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, ranking them 16th in the NFL. With the addition of seasoned players like Joseph and the infusion of fresh talent, the Cowboys aim to bolster this aspect of their game significantly. The combination of experience and potential could prove vital in elevating the team's defensive prowess.
Overall, the Dallas Cowboys have navigated an offseason filled with change and opportunity. By promptly addressing the gaps left by departing players and infusing the roster with experienced veterans, Jerry Jones has shown a commitment to maintaining a competitive defensive front. As the new season approaches, the impact of these moves will undoubtedly be a focal point for observers and fans alike.