Following an offseason that started with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, their approach has shifted to 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. One significant move the team plans is a scheduled 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), leading the league with 78 total tackles during its 10-game season. His defensive prowess doesn't end there; he led all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). These impressive stats earned him a spot on the UFL's inaugural All-League team, securing one of the three coveted inside linebacker positions.
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 caught the eye of the Cleveland Browns. Despite facing the continual challenge of oscillating between the Browns' practice squad and active roster, he managed to appear 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 made an impact on special teams, recording two tackles in his four-game NFL career. This resilience and determination highlight Harvey's potential to contribute meaningfully, given the right opportunity.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have a knack for finding valuable 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's impact was immediate, as he secured Pro Bowl honors as a rookie.
The team struck gold again last season by adding kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL. Aubrey set multiple NFL records, including 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. Furthermore, Aubrey 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 the Cowboys' track record of success with players from alternative leagues, it wouldn't be surprising if Willie Harvey Jr. made a significant impact should the team decide to sign him. His UFL performance suggests that he has the potential to become a regular starter or provide valuable depth to the Cowboys' roster.
Coach McCarthy's Perspective
Head 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 stated. "We're never done." He added, "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."
As the Cowboys finalize their 90-man roster for the upcoming training camp, the addition of Harvey could be a strategic move to bolster their defensive lineup. If his past performance is any indication, Harvey might just be the next standout player to transition successfully from an alternative league to the NFL.