It's been an eventful offseason for the Dallas Cowboys, particularly for their defensive line, which has seen a mix of high-profile departures and strategic acquisitions. Team owner and general manager Jerry Jones has been proactive in addressing the team's needs, ensuring the defensive front remains competitive for the upcoming season.
Among the notable losses were edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., along with defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore. Armstrong and Fowler chose to join the Washington Commanders, while Hankins moved on to the Seattle Seahawks, and Gallimore now dons the Miami Dolphins' colors. These departures left a significant void that required immediate attention.
Strategic Moves by Jerry Jones
On August 15, Jones orchestrated a trade 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 strategic move was quickly followed by the signing of veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson, bolstering the team's pass-rushing capabilities.
In a significant addition, the Cowboys secured the services of Linval Joseph, a 14-year NFL veteran and a formidable presence on the defensive line. Joseph, who has played for the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills, brings a wealth of experience and skill to the team.
The Linval Joseph Impact
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, the 35-year-old Joseph has a distinguished career. 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 tenure with the Minnesota Vikings was particularly fruitful, earning Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017.
Joseph was also part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning team in his second NFL season in 2011. His one-year contract with the Cowboys includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can increase to $4 million with incentives. Beyond his on-field contributions, Joseph is expected to play a key mentoring role for Dallas's 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
Focus on Run Defense
The Cowboys' run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game last season, ranking 16th in the NFL. With the addition of Joseph, the team aims to improve this statistic significantly. Known for his ability to clog running lanes and disrupt opposing offenses, Joseph's presence should bolster the Cowboys' interior defense.
As the Cowboys gear up for the new season, the restructured defensive line stands as a testament to Jerry Jones's commitment to maintaining a robust roster. While the loss of key players like Armstrong, Fowler, Hankins, and Gallimore presented challenges, the strategic acquisitions of Phillips, Lawson, and especially Joseph, provide hope for an even stronger defensive unit.
The reshaped defensive line, augmented by veteran presence and promising talent, positions the Cowboys to better contend with the rushing attacks they will face throughout the season. With experienced leaders like Joseph mentoring the younger players, the team hopes to achieve notable improvements and advance deeper into the playoffs.
The Cowboys' offseason moves highlight the dynamic nature of NFL team management, where adaptation and strategic planning are key to maintaining competitiveness. As the season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how these changes play out on the field.