Following an offseason that began with high aspirations, the Dallas Cowboys have shifted their approach to making strategic additions given their available resources. As the team prepares for training camp in late July, they are now focused on finalizing their 90-man roster. Among these efforts, the Cowboys have scheduled a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey has emerged as one of the standout performers in the United Football League (UFL). During the league's 10-game season, he led with a remarkable 78 total tackles. Additionally, Harvey topped all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). These accomplishments earned him one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots on the UFL's inaugural All-League team.
A Journey of Persistence
Harvey's journey to professional football has been anything but smooth. The linebacker went undrafted out of Iowa State in 2019 but was picked up by the Cleveland Browns. He found himself oscillating between the Browns' practice squad and active roster, appearing in four NFL games. His last NFL appearance came during the 2021 season when he recorded a tackle in Cleveland's Week 17 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite limited opportunities, Harvey managed to make his mark on special teams, recording two tackles in his four-game NFL career.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Dallas Cowboys have a knack for discovering talent in alternative leagues. In 2022, they signed KaVontae Turpin, a wide receiver and return man who earned MVP honors in the USFL. Turpin went on to earn Pro Bowl honors as a rookie. More recently, the Cowboys added kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL. Aubrey set an NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35) and tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35). Furthermore, he set the record for the most touchbacks on kickoffs in a single season (99) and earned first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2023.
The Potential Impact of Harvey
Given the Cowboys' track record of success with players from alternative leagues, it wouldn't be surprising if Willie Harvey Jr. made a significant impact should the team decide to sign him. His UFL performance indicates that he has the potential to become a regular starter or provide valuable depth for the squad. Harvey's ability to lead in multiple defensive categories highlights his versatility and skill set, making him an attractive addition to the Cowboys' roster.
Coach McCarthy's Perspective
Coach Mike McCarthy has consistently emphasized the team's commitment to improving the roster. "I think it's just kind of where we are," McCarthy noted. "We're never done. I actually just met with [vice president of player personnel] Will [McClay] for quite some time this morning. We've got plenty of really good players to practice and get ready. We were at 88 this time last year."
This continuous search for talent demonstrates the Cowboys' dedication to building a competitive and well-rounded team. With training camp just around the corner, the strategic addition of players like Willie Harvey Jr. could play a pivotal role in the Cowboys' preparation and success for the upcoming season.