It's been an offseason of change for the Dallas Cowboys defensive line, with team owner and general manager Jerry Jones taking swift action in response to significant departures. The Cowboys have seen key players such as edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore find new homes with other NFL teams.
Armstrong and Fowler, now with the Washington Commanders, created a noticeable void on the edge. Hankins has joined the Seattle Seahawks, while Gallimore moved on to the Miami Dolphins. Faced with these departures, Jones swiftly orchestrated maneuvers to solidify the defensive front.
A Savvy Trade and Signings
On August 15, Jones executed a strategic trade with the New York Giants, acquiring veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick. The deal also included a future seventh-round pick, showcasing Jones's adeptness at securing valuable assets.
Not stopping there, the Cowboys signed veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson, reinforcing the edge with experience and skill. Lawson's addition was a significant move, aimed at bolstering the pass rush following the departures of Armstrong and Fowler.
Major Addition in Linval Joseph
Perhaps the most substantial addition came with the signing of 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. Joseph, who has had stints with the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills, brings a wealth of experience and a commanding presence to the line.
At 35 years old, Joseph stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 329 pounds. His NFL journey began when he was selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. Over his illustrious career, Joseph has amassed 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles in 186 career games, including 170 starts.
Joseph's impact on the field was recognized with Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 during his time with the Minnesota Vikings. Furthermore, he was a part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in his second NFL season in 2011, underscoring his championship pedigree.
Joseph's contract with the Cowboys includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can escalate to $4 million with incentives on a one-year deal. This investment reflects the Cowboys' belief in his ability to contribute both on the field and as a mentor.
Mentoring Future Stars
Joseph is expected to play a pivotal mentoring role for the Cowboys' 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith. Smith, who carries high expectations, will benefit from Joseph's extensive knowledge and experience, providing invaluable guidance as he transitions to the NFL.
Last season, the Cowboys' run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, ranking 16th in the NFL. With the addition of Joseph and other key personnel changes, the Cowboys aim to climb the ranks and solidify their defensive front.
Looking Ahead
As the Cowboys prepare for the upcoming season, the retooled defensive line stands as a testament to Jerry Jones's proactive approach in building a competitive team. The blend of seasoned veterans like Linval Joseph and emerging talent like Mazi Smith provides a balanced foundation aimed at fortifying the defense.
With the changes implemented, the Cowboys' defensive line appears poised for a revamp, seeking to improve their run defense and overall performance. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these new additions and strategic moves translate on the field when the season kicks off.