It's been an offseason of transformation for the Dallas Cowboys' defensive line. Faced with significant departures, team owner and general manager Jerry Jones has been swift in his efforts to restock and fortify the team's defensive front.
Among the key losses, the exits of edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr. have created notable gaps in the Cowboys' roster. Both players have taken their talents to the Washington Commanders, marking a significant shift in the defensive lineup. Additionally, defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins has moved on to the Seattle Seahawks, and Neville Gallimore has found a new home with the Miami Dolphins.
Strategic Moves and Acquisitions
In response to these departures, Jones has moved quickly to bolster the defensive line. On August 15, a trade was executed 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 move was soon followed by the signing of veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson, adding much-needed depth and experience to the Cowboys' defensive front.
However, one of the most substantial additions came with the signing of 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. A player with a wealth of experience, Joseph has played for the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, Joseph brings a commanding physical presence to the team.
Joseph's Impressive Credentials
Joseph's career has been marked by significant accomplishments since being selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. Over 186 career games, including 170 starts, Joseph has accumulated 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles. His consistent performance has earned him Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 during his tenure with the Minnesota Vikings.
Joseph was also part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in his second NFL season in 2011, adding a championship pedigree to his resume. This offseason, he signed a contract with the Cowboys that includes $2.5 million guaranteed, with incentives pushing the potential value up to $4 million on a one-year deal.
A Key Mentorship Role
Beyond his on-field contributions, Joseph is expected to play a pivotal mentoring role for the Cowboys’ 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith. With Joseph's extensive experience and knowledge of the game, he is well-positioned to guide and develop the young talent within the team.
Looking to Improve
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 are seen as critical steps towards improving this statistic and solidifying the defensive line.
Jerry Jones' proactive approach this offseason underscores the team's commitment to remaining competitive. By bringing in seasoned veterans like Linval Joseph and emerging talents such as Carl Lawson, the Cowboys aim to address the challenges posed by the departure of key players and build a robust defensive front for the upcoming season.
As the new season approaches, the spotlight will be on how these strategic moves translate on the field. The integration of new talent and veteran leadership will be vital in determining the Cowboys' success in the defensive domain.