It's been an offseason of change for the Dallas Cowboys' defensive line as significant departures shook up their roster. Team owner and general manager Jerry Jones didn't waste any time in reinforcing the squad, bringing new talent to fill the void left by key players.
The offseason saw the loss of edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., both of whom brought their talents to the Washington Commanders. Defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins signed with the Seattle Seahawks, while interior lineman Neville Gallimore moved on to the Miami Dolphins. These departures meant the Cowboys had to act swiftly to maintain a competitive edge.
Key Moves to Strengthen the Defense
On August 15, Jones executed a trade with the New York Giants, sending a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and a future seventh-round selection. This trade was a calculated move to bring an experienced player to the Cowboys' front line.
Further bolstering the team's defense, the Cowboys signed veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson. Lawson’s presence is expected to add depth and experience, key components for a defensive line looking to create pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
A Major Addition: Linval Joseph
Arguably the most substantial addition to the Cowboys' defensive line is the signing of Linval Joseph. The 14-year NFL veteran brings a wealth of experience to the team, having played for 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 physical stature is imposing, to say the least. Selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Giants, Joseph has had an illustrious career, accumulating 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles over 186 games, including 170 starts. His accolades include Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 while with the Vikings, and he was part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in 2011 during his second NFL season.
Joseph's one-year contract with the Cowboys includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can reach up to $4 million with incentives. This deal not only reflects his value but also the faith the Cowboys have in his ability to make an immediate impact.
Joseph’s Role as a Mentor
Aside from his on-field contributions, Joseph is expected to play a significant mentoring role, particularly for the Cowboys’ 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith. The addition of Joseph is strategic, aimed at nurturing Smith’s talents and helping him transition smoothly into the NFL's elite defensive ranks.
Improving the Run Defense
Last season, the Cowboys’ run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, placing them 16th in the NFL. The recent acquisitions, particularly that of Joseph, are targeted at improving these numbers and solidifying the defensive line. His proven track record and leadership qualities are expected to fortify the Cowboys' defense against the run.
As the Cowboys gear up for the upcoming season, the new additions signify a clear intention to remain competitive and address previous weaknesses. With the mix of seasoned veterans and promising new talents, the squad looks well-prepared to tackle the challenges ahead. The moves made by Jerry Jones echo a commitment to reinforcing the defense, a crucial aspect if the Cowboys aim to contend seriously in the forthcoming season.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes blend into the team dynamics and whether the new recruits can gel quickly to make a substantial impact. The Cowboys' strategy in the offseason will be put to the test, but early indications suggest a well-thought-out approach to building a formidable defensive unit.