Amid an offseason of significant restructuring, the Dallas Cowboys' defensive line has undergone a series of dramatic changes. Team owner and general manager Jerry Jones has been proactive, swiftly maneuvering to fill the voids left by key departures.
Major Departures
The Cowboys suffered notable losses in their defensive front, including edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., as well as defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore. Armstrong and Fowler's departure to the Washington Commanders, combined with Hankins' move to the Seattle Seahawks and Gallimore's new chapter with the Miami Dolphins, left significant gaps that demanded immediate attention.
Strategic Acquisitions
In a decisive response, Jerry Jones orchestrated several pivotal acquisitions aimed at reinforcing the Cowboys’ defensive line. On August 15, Jones traded a 2026 sixth-round pick to the New York Giants in exchange for veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and a future seventh-round pick. This trade was quickly followed by the signing of free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson, known for his relentless pursuit and effectiveness on the edge.
Arguably the most significant addition came with the signing of 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. With a résumé boasting stints with the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills, Joseph brings invaluable experience and leadership qualities to Dallas. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, the 35-year-old lineman has built a reputation for his formidable presence and durability.
Linval Joseph's Impact
Joseph, a second-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft by the Giants, has accumulated an impressive 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles over his 186-game career, which includes 170 starts. His tenure with the Minnesota Vikings was particularly notable, earning him Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017. Furthermore, Joseph was part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in 2011 during his second NFL season.
Dallas's one-year contract with Joseph, which includes $2.5 million guaranteed and potential earnings up to $4 million with incentives, signals high expectations for his contribution on and off the field. Joseph is not only expected to fortify the defensive line but also to serve a critical mentoring role for the Cowboys' 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
Building for the Future
Jones' strategic moves reflect a balance of short-term reinforcement and long-term development. With Dallas's run defense having allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game last season, ranking them 16th in the NFL, the addition of Joseph and other veterans is aimed at bolstering the team's ability to stymie opponents' ground games.
The integration of experienced players like Joseph, known for his leadership and knack for mentoring young talent, is expected to foster a culture of resilience and cohesiveness within Dallas's defensive unit. The blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers positions the Cowboys to potentially climb the defensive ranks in the coming season.
While the departure of key players such as Armstrong, Fowler, Hankins, and Gallimore posed challenges, the proactive adjustments by Jerry Jones underscore the Cowboys' commitment to maintaining a robust and competitive defense. The upcoming season will reveal how these new dynamics translate on the field, as Dallas aims to solidify its defensive fortifications and make a deeper postseason run.