It's been an offseason of change for the Dallas Cowboys defensive line. Amid significant departures, team owner and general manager Jerry Jones has quickly moved to restock and reinforce the defensive front.
The Cowboys faced notable losses with edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore all signing with other NFL teams. The departures of Armstrong and Fowler to the Washington Commanders particularly stung for Dallas. Hankins moved on to the Seattle Seahawks, while Gallimore found a new home with the Miami Dolphins.
In response, Jones has been proactive. On August 15, he 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 move was quickly followed by the signing of veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson.
Key Signings and Trades
The Cowboys' most substantial addition came with the signing of 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. Having played for the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills, Joseph brings a wealth of experience. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, the 35-year-old was selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. Over his career, he has accumulated 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles over 186 career games, including 170 starts.
Joseph's career is highlighted by Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 while with the Minnesota Vikings, and he was also part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in his second NFL season in 2011. His contract with the Cowboys includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can go up to $4 million with incentives on a one-year deal.
Impact on the Team
Expectations for Joseph extend beyond his on-field performance. He is anticipated to play a key mentoring role for the Cowboys' 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith. This mentorship is critical as the Cowboys look to bolster a defensive front that allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game last season, ranking 16th in the NFL.
The influx of experience with Joseph and the injection of new talent through trades and free-agent signings may provide the stability and depth the Cowboys need on their defensive line. As the team navigates the loss of several key players, these calculated additions reflect a commitment to maintaining a competitive front on defense.
With the upcoming season approaching, it will be pivotal for the Cowboys to integrate these new pieces effectively. The success of their defensive line will be instrumental in determining their overall performance and playoff aspirations. Jerry Jones' swift moves in the offseason indicate a strategic approach, setting the stage for what could be a transformative year for the Dallas Cowboys defense.