Following an offseason that began with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, their strategy has shifted toward making strategic additions with the resources available. As the team focuses on finalizing their 90-man roster, they are gearing up for training camp in late July.
This preparation includes scheduling a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey emerged as one of the standout performers in the United Football League (UFL). He led the league with 78 total tackles during its 10-game season. Additionally, Harvey topped all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). His impressive performance earned him one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots on the UFL's inaugural All-League team.
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 was picked up by the Cleveland Browns. He oscillated between the Browns' practice squad and active roster, ultimately appearing 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 managed to make his mark on special teams, recording two tackles in his four-game NFL career.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have demonstrated a keen eye for identifying 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 went on to earn Pro Bowl honors as a rookie. On the heels of that success, the Cowboys added kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL last season. Aubrey set an NFL record for 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 (35). He also 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 this track record of success with players from alternative leagues, it wouldn’t be surprising if Willie Harvey Jr. made a significant impact should the Cowboys decide to sign him. His UFL performance suggests that he has the potential to become a regular starter or provide valuable depth to the roster.
Coach McCarthy's Perspective
Coach Mike McCarthy has consistently emphasized the team's commitment to improving the roster. "I think it's just kind of where we are," he stated. "We're never done. 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."
With this consistent focus on enhancing the roster, the Cowboys are well-positioned to identify and cultivate untapped talent like Harvey. The upcoming training camp in late July will be a critical period for the team as they integrate new talent and prepare for the upcoming season. If history is any indicator, the Cowboys will continue to leverage their ability to scout and develop players from alternative leagues, potentially uncovering gems that can contribute significantly to their success.
The Cowboys' ongoing commitment to building their roster is evident in their actions and strategic decisions. As they prepare for the new season, the combination of seasoned players and promising talent from leagues like the UFL and USFL could provide the team with a competitive edge. With Coach McCarthy at the helm and a clear vision for the future, the Dallas Cowboys are poised to make waves in the NFL.