It's been an offseason of significant change for the Dallas Cowboys' defensive line, as the team has faced substantial departures and made swift moves to rebuild.
The Cowboys lost key defensive players, including edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, and interior lineman Neville Gallimore. Armstrong and Fowler's exit to the Washington Commanders created a notable void. Hankins moved on to the Seattle Seahawks, while Gallimore found a new home with the Miami Dolphins.
Strategic Moves to Rebuild the Line
In response to these losses, team owner and general manager Jerry Jones wasted no time in reinforcing the defensive front. On August 15, Jones executed a trade with the New York Giants, exchanging a 2026 sixth-round pick for veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and a future seventh-round pick. This move was swiftly followed by the signing of veteran free-agent edge rusher Carl Lawson.
The Cowboys also made a significant addition to their defensive line by acquiring 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. Joseph, a seasoned player with a rich history, brings valuable experience and skills to the team. Throughout his illustrious career, Joseph has played for multiple teams, including the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills.
Linval Joseph’s Impact and Role
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, the 35-year-old Joseph was 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 outstanding performances earned him Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 while he was with the Minnesota Vikings.
Joseph's career highlights include being part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in 2011, his second NFL season. As he joins the Cowboys, Joseph has signed a one-year deal that includes $2.5 million guaranteed, with potential earnings up to $4 million through incentives. His addition is not only about bolstering the current lineup but also about mentoring younger talent. Joseph is expected to play a key mentoring role for the Cowboys’ 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
Evaluating the Defense
Last season, the Cowboys' run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, ranking 16th in the NFL. The addition of seasoned veterans like Joseph and Phillips, coupled with the signing of Lawson, aims to shore up this aspect of their defense. With these strategic moves, Jerry Jones and the Cowboys' management are evidently committed to strengthening the team's defensive capabilities for the upcoming season.
As the Cowboys navigate this offseason of change, the influx of experienced players brings hope for a more resilient and formidable defensive line. The blend of seasoned veterans and promising new talent suggests a renewed focus on tactical prowess and defensive fortitude, setting the stage for what could be an exciting season ahead for Dallas fans.