It's been an offseason of change for the Dallas Cowboys defensive line, marked by notable departures and strategic acquisitions. Team owner and general manager Jerry Jones swiftly addressed the gaps, ensuring the team remains formidable as they enter the new season.
This offseason saw the Cowboys bid farewell to several key defensive players. Edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr. packed their bags for the Washington Commanders, leaving significant holes in the pass rush. Defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins moved to the Seattle Seahawks, while interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore signed with the Miami Dolphins. The loss of Armstrong and Fowler, in particular, represented a substantial blow to the Cowboys' defensive strategy.
In typical Jerry Jones fashion, the Cowboys were quick to act. 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 was a clear signal that the Cowboys were not about to let their defensive line weaken.
Shortly after the trade, Jones further strengthened the roster by adding veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson. The moves didn't stop there. In a substantial addition, the Cowboys signed 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. Joseph, a second-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, brings a wealth of experience and an imposing physical presence at 6-foot-4 and 329 pounds.
Veteran Leadership and Experience
Linval Joseph's career achievements are impressive. Over 186 career games, including 170 starts, he has accumulated 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles. His performance earned him Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 while with the Minnesota Vikings. Joseph also brings championship pedigree, having been part of the Giants’ Super Bowl-winning squad in his second NFL season in 2011.
The Cowboys have signed Joseph to a one-year deal that includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can reach up to $4 million with incentives. His presence is expected to be particularly beneficial as a mentor to the Cowboys’ 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith. Joseph's experience and leadership could be invaluable for Smith’s development.
Strengthening the Defensive Front
Dallas has demonstrated a clear strategy in rebuilding its defensive line. The acquisition of Jordan Phillips, coupled with the signing of Carl Lawson and Linval Joseph, highlights a focused effort to address immediate needs while planning for the future. These moves suggest that the Cowboys are aiming to enhance both their pass rush and run defense capabilities.
Last season, Dallas's run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, ranking 16th in the NFL. The addition of proven veterans like Joseph and Phillips should help bolster this aspect of their game, making the Cowboys’ defensive front a more robust unit.
Looking Ahead
The Cowboys' offseason moves underscore a commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly challenging NFC East. The quick actions by Jerry Jones and the front office to replace key departures with seasoned veterans indicate a proactive approach. As training camp progresses and the regular season approaches, the new-look defensive line will be one to watch.
The integration of Joseph, Phillips, and Lawson will be crucial in ensuring the Cowboys can disrupt opposing offenses and protect their own defensive integrity. With Linval Joseph's extensive experience and mentoring capability, the Cowboys are poised to see tangible improvements in their defensive performance.
In an offseason filled with change, the Dallas Cowboys have demonstrated resilience and strategic foresight. The defensive line, now featuring a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, aims to be a cornerstone of the team’s success in the upcoming season. All eyes will be on how these new additions gel and elevate the Cowboys' defensive game.