The Dallas Cowboys have experienced a whirlwind offseason, particularly within their defensive line. Notable exits left significant gaps, prompting swift action from owner and general manager Jerry Jones to fortify the team's front defenses.
Significant Departures
The Cowboys bid farewell to several key defensive figures, including edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., who moved on to the Washington Commanders. Defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins signed with the Seattle Seahawks, while interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore joined the Miami Dolphins. These departures delivered a significant blow to the Cowboys' defensive lineup, especially the losses of Armstrong and Fowler.
Strategic Acquisitions
In response, Jones wasted no time in sourcing experienced talent to bolster the defensive front. On August 15, Jones orchestrated 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 pick. This strategic maneuver was swiftly followed by the acquisition of veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson.
Bringing Veteran Experience
Among the most substantial signings, the Cowboys secured the services of Linval Joseph, a 14-year NFL stalwart known for his tenure with multiple teams including the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 329 pounds, the 35-year-old Joseph brings a wealth of experience and physicality to the Cowboys' defensive line.
Drafted in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, Joseph has compiled an impressive resume spanning 186 career games and 170 starts. Accumulating 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles, Joseph has established himself as a reliable and formidable presence on the field. His performances with the Minnesota Vikings earned him Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017. Additionally, Joseph was an integral part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning team in the 2011 season.
Contract Details and Expectations
The one-year contract signed by Joseph includes $2.5 million in guaranteed money and incentives that could elevate the total value to $4 million. Beyond his on-field contributions, Joseph is anticipated to play a crucial mentoring role for the Cowboys' 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith. This mentorship could prove invaluable for the development of the rookie lineman, blending experienced insight with youthful energy.
Dallas's defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game last season, placing them 16th in the NFL. The infusion of seasoned players like Joseph, along with the tactical acquisitions of Phillips and Lawson, aims to strengthen this aspect of their game. As the Cowboys look to improve their defensive standings, these moves underscore a commitment to augmenting their line with veteran leadership and proven performance.
Overall, the transformations within the Cowboys' defensive line highlight a measured approach to maintaining strength and continuity within the team's defensive framework. With the influx of seasoned veterans and the nurturing of emerging talent, the Cowboys are poised to navigate the upcoming season with renewed vigor and strategic depth. The blend of experience and new potential is designed to bolster the defense and carve a path towards sustained success on the field.