The Dallas Cowboys' offseason has been marked by significant changes, particularly on the defensive line. With key departures, owner and general manager Jerry Jones wasted no time in reinforcing the squad, making several strategic moves to address the team's needs.
Key Departures
The Cowboys' defensive line saw the exit of edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore. Armstrong and Fowler joined the division rival Washington Commanders, Hankins headed to the Seattle Seahawks, and Gallimore signed with the Miami Dolphins. These losses left noticeable gaps in the defensive front, particularly the impactful exits of Armstrong and Fowler.
New Acquisitions
In response, Jones promptly executed a series of moves to rebuild the line. On August 15, a trade with the New York Giants secured defensive tackle Jordan Phillips in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick. The deal also included a future seventh-round pick, adding depth and experience to the line.
Following this, the Cowboys signed free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson, known for his tenacity and playmaking ability. However, the standout addition was the acquisition of veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. The 35-year-old Joseph brings a wealth of experience, having played for the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills over his illustrious 14-year career.
Linval Joseph: A Seasoned Veteran
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, Joseph was a second-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft by the Giants. Throughout 186 career games, including 170 starts, he has recorded 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and an impressive 676 total tackles. His efforts earned him Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 with the Vikings and a Super Bowl ring with the Giants in his second season.
Joseph's contract with the Cowboys includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can rise to $4 million with incentives on a one-year deal. Beyond his on-field contributions, he is expected to play a crucial mentoring role for Dallas's 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
Addressing Defensive Needs
The Cowboys aim to bolster their run defense, which allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game last season, ranking them 16th in the NFL. With Joseph's experience and leadership, the defense hopes to see significant improvements.
Jerry Jones's quick and decisive actions in the offseason reflect his commitment to maintaining a competitive team. By addressing the defensive line's pressing needs, the Cowboys are poised to build on their previous season and contend for top honors. The integration of seasoned veterans like Joseph and promising talents like Mazi Smith could be the winning formula needed to enhance the defensive front's performance.
As the new season approaches, the Cowboys' revamped defensive line will undoubtedly be a crucial aspect to watch. With fresh faces and seasoned leaders, the team is setting its sights high, ready to tackle the challenges ahead.