It's been an offseason marked by significant transitions for the Dallas Cowboys' defensive line. The departure of several key players catalyzed swift action from team owner and general manager Jerry Jones, who moved quickly to reinforce the ranks with experienced talent.
The Cowboys faced substantial losses as edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr. exited the team, opting to join division rivals, the Washington Commanders. Defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins signed with the Seattle Seahawks, while interior lineman Neville Gallimore took his skills to the Miami Dolphins. Each of these departures left considerable gaps in the Cowboys' defense, necessitating prompt and strategic replacements.
Strategic Acquisitions
On August 15, Jones executed a savvy trade with the New York Giants, securing veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick and acquiring a future seventh-round pick. This move demonstrated Jones' commitment to maintaining a strong defensive line, even amid the offseason turbulence.
Further bolstering the roster, the Cowboys signed veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson. Lawson's experience and proven ability to disrupt opposing offenses add an element of reliability and skill to the Cowboys' defensive front.
Adding a Proven Veteran
The most notable addition to the Cowboys' defensive line came with the signing of 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. With a career spanning several prominent teams, including the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills, Joseph brings a wealth of experience and leadership to Dallas.
The 35-year-old Joseph stands at 6-foot-4 and weighs 329 pounds, making him a formidable presence in the trenches. Drafted by the Giants in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft, Joseph has accumulated impressive career statistics, including 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles over 186 games, with 170 starts.
During his tenure with the Minnesota Vikings, Joseph earned Pro Bowl selections in both 2016 and 2017, solidifying his reputation as one of the league's top interior linemen. His experience is further highlighted by his contribution to the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in the 2011 season, just his second year in the NFL.
Joseph's contract with the Cowboys includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can reach up to $4 million with incentives on a one-year deal, underscoring the team's belief in his ability to make an immediate impact.
Mentorship and Defensive Improvement
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. This mentorship could be crucial for Smith’s development, as he transitions to the professional level and looks to make his mark in the NFL.
Last season, the Cowboys' run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, ranking 16th in the NFL. The addition of Joseph, known for his run-stopping ability, aims to improve these numbers significantly. His presence should help anchor the defensive line and provide a sturdier front against opposing rushers.
As the offseason continues to unfold, the Cowboys' strategic moves and acquisitions have positioned them to mitigate the impact of their key departures. With the addition of seasoned veterans like Jordan Phillips, Carl Lawson, and Linval Joseph, the team is poised to field a robust and experienced defensive line in the upcoming season.
Jerry Jones' swift and calculated actions reflect a clear understanding of the urgency needed to sustain the Cowboys' defensive prowess. By blending veteran leadership with emerging talent, Dallas aims to remain competitive in a demanding NFC East division and beyond.