It's been a dynamic offseason for the Dallas Cowboys defensive line, marked by notable departures and strategic acquisitions. Team owner and general manager Jerry Jones swiftly addressed the team's needs, reinforcing the defensive front amidst significant exits.
Key Departures
The Cowboys have seen a substantial reshaping on their defensive front. Losing edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, and interior lineman Neville Gallimore left significant gaps. Armstrong and Fowler brought their talents to the Washington Commanders, while Hankins headed west to join the Seattle Seahawks, and Gallimore signed with the Miami Dolphins.
The departures of Armstrong and Fowler particularly stung for Dallas, as both were integral to the Cowboys’ pass-rushing schemes. Their move to a division rival underscores the competitive nature of the NFC East, further compelling the Cowboys to act decisively in filling these vacancies.
Strategic Acquisitions
By mid-August, Jerry Jones initiated a trade with the New York Giants, securing veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick. This trade also brought a future seventh-round pick to Dallas. The reinforcement continued with the signing of free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson, a move signaling the Cowboys' intent to maintain a formidable pass rush.
However, the most substantial addition to the defensive line came with the signing of Linval Joseph. A seasoned veteran with 14 years in the NFL, Joseph brings a wealth of experience, having played for the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. His arrival in Dallas represents both a strategic and symbolic bolster to the defensive line.
Linval Joseph's Impact
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, Joseph was selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Giants. Over his extensive career, he has played in 186 games, accumulating 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles. His resume includes Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 while with the Vikings, and he was part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in his second season in 2011.
Joseph's testament to consistency and performance makes him a cornerstone addition to the Cowboys. His one-year deal includes $2.5 million guaranteed and could reach up to $4 million with incentives. Beyond his on-field contributions, Joseph is expected to play a pivotal mentoring role for the Cowboys' 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
Defensive Outlook
Last season, Dallas's run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, ranking 16th in the NFL. With the infusion of experience provided by Joseph and the defensive depth bolstered by Phillips and Lawson, the Cowboys aim to improve this metric significantly. Joseph’s leadership and proven track record could be the missing piece that elevates the defense to new heights.
As the Cowboys look ahead to the upcoming season, the defensive line, underpinned by these key off-season moves, stands as a testament to the team’s commitment to fortifying its trenches. The blend of veteran savvy and youthful potential on the roster primes Dallas for a season where the defense could become a pivotal factor in their pursuit of success.