Following an offseason that began with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, their approach has shifted towards making strategic additions with the resources available.
The Cowboys are now focusing on finalizing their 90-man roster as they gear up for training camp in late July.
The team has scheduled a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey emerged as one of the standout performers in the United Football League (UFL). He led the league with 78 total tackles during its 10-game season. Additionally, Harvey topped all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). His stellar performance earned him one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots on the UFL's inaugural All-League team.
A Journey of Persistence
Harvey's journey to professional football has been anything but smooth. The linebacker went undrafted out of Iowa State in 2019 but was picked up by the Cleveland Browns. During his time with the Browns, he oscillated between their practice squad and active roster, appearing in four NFL games. His last NFL appearance came during the 2021 season, when he recorded a tackle in Cleveland's Week 17 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite limited opportunities, Harvey managed to make his mark on special teams, recording two tackles in his four-game NFL career.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have shown a knack for finding talent in alternative leagues. In 2022, they signed KaVontae Turpin, a wide receiver and return man who had earned MVP honors in the USFL. Turpin went on to earn Pro Bowl honors as a rookie. Last season, the Cowboys added kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL. Aubrey set the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35) and tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35). He also set the record for the most touchbacks on kickoffs in a single season (99), earning first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2023.
The Potential Impact of Harvey
Given this track record of success with players from alternative leagues, it wouldn't be surprising if Willie Harvey Jr. made a significant impact should the Cowboys decide to sign him. His UFL performance suggests that he has the potential to become a regular starter or provide valuable depth for the team.
Coach McCarthy's Perspective
Coach Mike McCarthy has consistently emphasized the team’s commitment to improving the roster. "I think it's just kind of where we are," McCarthy said. "We're never done." He continued, "I actually just met with (vice president of player personnel) Will (McClay) for quite some time this morning. We've got plenty of really good players to practice and get ready. We were at 88 this time last year."
The Dallas Cowboys are clearly not resting on their laurels as they prepare for the upcoming season. By exploring talent from alternative leagues like the UFL, the Cowboys are demonstrating their willingness to look beyond traditional avenues to strengthen their roster. With the potential addition of Willie Harvey Jr., the team could bolster their defense and add to their already impressive history of finding and developing talent from lesser-known leagues.
Only time will tell whether Harvey will make the final roster, but his performance in the UFL indicates he could be a valuable asset. As training camp approaches, the Cowboys will continue to assess and fine-tune their roster, aiming to make strategic improvements that could contribute to a successful season.