It's been an offseason of change for the Dallas Cowboys' defensive line, marked by significant departures and swift reinforcements orchestrated by team owner and general manager Jerry Jones.
The Cowboys faced the loss of key players, including edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., as well as defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore. Armstrong and Fowler both joined the Washington Commanders, while Hankins moved on to the Seattle Seahawks and Gallimore signed with the Miami Dolphins.
Rebuilding the Defensive Front
In response to these exits, Jones wasted no time in restocking the defensive line. On August 15, the Cowboys executed a trade with the New York Giants, acquiring veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick and a future seventh-round pick. This strategic move addressed the immediate need for depth on the defensive front.
Following the trade, the Cowboys bolstered their pass rush by signing veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson. The addition of Lawson brought much-needed experience and versatility to the defensive line, helping to fill the void left by the departed edge rushers.
Perhaps the most significant addition came with the signing of 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. Joseph has an impressive resume, having played for several teams, including the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, the 35-year-old brings both size and experience to the Cowboys' defensive line.
Linval Joseph's Impact
Joseph's career accomplishments are noteworthy. Selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, Joseph has accumulated 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles over 186 career games, including 170 starts. His performance has earned him Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 while with the Minnesota Vikings, and he was part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in 2011.
Joseph's one-year contract with the Cowboys includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can go up to $4 million with incentives. Beyond his on-field capabilities, Joseph is expected to play a crucial mentoring role for the Cowboys’ 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith. Smith, a promising talent, will benefit from Joseph's extensive experience and guidance.
Addressing Defensive Concerns
The Cowboys' run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game last season, ranking 16th in the NFL. By adding experienced players like Phillips and Joseph, the team aims to improve this aspect of their game. Joseph's ability to anchor the defensive line and his veteran presence are expected to make a significant impact.
Jerry Jones' proactive approach in addressing the team's defensive needs reflects his commitment to building a competitive squad. By making strategic acquisitions and ensuring the team does not suffer from the loss of key players, Jones has positioned the Cowboys to make strides in the upcoming season.
As the new season approaches, the revamped defensive line will be put to the test. The blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent creates a dynamic that could potentially elevate the Cowboys' defensive performance. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these new additions integrate and contribute to the team's success.
In the world of professional football, change is a constant, and the Cowboys' offseason moves exemplify the strategic decisions necessary to remain competitive. With these new acquisitions, the Dallas Cowboys are poised to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season, fortified by a strengthened and reenergized defensive line.