The Dallas Cowboys have experienced a significant overhaul of their defensive line this offseason. In a series of bold moves, team owner and general manager Jerry Jones has swiftly acted to counterbalance key departures and inject new talent into the roster.
Significant Departures
The Cowboys' defensive front saw the exit of several pivotal players, notably edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., both of whom signed with the Washington Commanders. Additionally, defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins departed for the Seattle Seahawks, and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore made his way to the Miami Dolphins.
The departures of Armstrong and Fowler were particularly impactful, as both players were integral to the pass rush. The losses necessitated immediate action to ensure the defensive line remained competitive in the coming season.
Strategic Acquisitions
In response, Jones embarked on a flurry of transactions. On August 15, he completed a trade with the New York Giants, dealing a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and a future seventh-round pick. This move was soon complemented by the acquisition of free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson.
Perhaps the most substantial addition to the Cowboys’ defensive line is the signing of Linval Joseph, a 14-year NFL veteran. Joseph's extensive resume includes stints with the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, the 35-year-old joins Dallas with a wealth of experience and an impressive track record.
A Storied Career
Joseph, who was selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, has accumulated 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles over 186 career games, including 170 starts. His career highlights include Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 while with the Vikings and being part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning team in his second NFL season in 2011.
His contract with the Cowboys is a one-year deal featuring $2.5 million guaranteed, with potential earnings up to $4 million through incentives. More than just his on-field contributions, Joseph is expected to play a vital mentoring role, particularly for the Cowboys’ 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
Impact on the 2023 Season
One of the critical areas Joseph is expected to bolster is the Cowboys' run defense. Last season, Dallas allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, ranking 16th in the NFL. With Joseph's addition, the team hopes to improve these numbers and enhance their defensive front's overall performance.
Jones’s decisive actions demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a formidable defense despite the offseason's challenges. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, the Cowboys aim to remain competitive and make a significant impact in the upcoming NFL season.
As the 2023 season approaches, all eyes will be on how these new additions integrate into the Cowboys’ defensive strategy and contribute to the team's success on the field. The changes in Dallas's defensive line might very well determine the team's fate this season.