Following an offseason that began with high aspirations for the Dallas Cowboys, their approach has pivoted towards making strategic additions within their available resources.
Now, as they gear up for training camp in late July, the Cowboys are keen on finalizing their 90-man roster.
The team has scheduled a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey has 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, showcasing his defensive prowess.
Harvey also topped all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). Such statistics highlight his ability to disrupt the offense and make pivotal plays. His exceptional performance earned him one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots on the UFL's inaugural All-League team, solidifying his status as a top-tier talent in the league.
A Journey of Persistence
Harvey's journey to professional football has been far from smooth. The linebacker went undrafted out of Iowa State in 2019 but was subsequently picked up by the Cleveland Browns. Harvey oscillated between the Browns' practice squad and active roster, appearing in four NFL games. His last NFL appearance came during the 2021 season, where 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. His persistence and continuous improvement have kept him in the football conversation, regardless of the league.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have displayed a talent for identifying skilled players 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 for the Cowboys, showing that talent from alternative leagues can shine brightly at the highest level.
Another success story is kicker Brandon Aubrey, also from the USFL. Aubrey set the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35). Additionally, he tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35) and set the record for the most touchbacks on kickoffs in a single season (99).
Aubrey's stellar performance earned him first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2023. These success stories exemplify the Cowboys' ability to scout and develop talent from unconventional sources.
The Potential Impact of Harvey
Given their track record with players from alternative leagues, it would not be surprising if Willie Harvey Jr. made a significant impact should the Cowboys decide to sign him. His performance in the UFL strongly suggests that he has the potential to become a regular starter or, at the very least, provide valuable depth to the roster.
Harvey's versatility and ability to make game-changing plays could be a valuable asset for the Cowboys' defense. If given the opportunity, he may replicate or even exceed the success of previous acquisitions from alternative leagues.
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," stated McCarthy. "We're never done. I actually just met with (vice president of player personnel) Will (McClay) for quite some time this morning. We got plenty of really good players to practice and get ready. We were at 88 this time last year," he added.
These comments underscore the Cowboys' relentless pursuit of excellence and their willingness to explore all avenues to build a competitive team. The workout with Harvey is yet another example of their strategic approach to enhancing their roster depth ahead of the new season.
As the Cowboys gear up for their upcoming training camp, all eyes will be on their new recruits, including potential additions like Willie Harvey Jr. If his track record is any indication, Harvey could very well be the next gem to join the Cowboys from alternative leagues—ready to make a name for himself on the NFL stage.