It's been an offseason of transformation for the Dallas Cowboys' defensive line, an area that will be critical to their success in the upcoming NFL season. The changes began with some significant departures that left noticeable gaps in the team's defense.
Among the key losses were edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., who both joined the Washington Commanders. This duo had been pivotal in applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks, making their loss particularly impactful. In addition, the Cowboys also bid farewell to defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore, who signed with the Seattle Seahawks and Miami Dolphins respectively.
Recognizing the immediate need to address these departures, team owner and general manager Jerry Jones took swift action. On August 15, Jones struck a trade with the New York Giants, a move that saw the Cowboys give up a 2026 sixth-round pick in exchange for veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and a future seventh-round pick. Phillips' arrival was a crucial step in replenishing the defensive front.
But Jones didn’t stop there. Shortly after the trade, the Cowboys bolstered their edge with the signing of veteran free agent Carl Lawson. Known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses, Lawson's addition was a strategic move to restore the team's pass-rush potency.
The most significant addition, however, was the signing of 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. At 35 years old, Joseph brings unparalleled experience and leadership to the Cowboys. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, Joseph's physical presence alone commands respect on the line of scrimmage.
Joseph, selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, has had a distinguished career. His resume includes stints with the Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. Over his 186 career games, which include 170 starts, Joseph has accumulated impressive statistics: 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles.
His performance peaked during his tenure with the Vikings, earning Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017. Additionally, Joseph was a member of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning team during his second NFL season in 2011, a testament to his ability to contribute to championship-caliber squads.
Joseph's contract with the Cowboys includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can go up to $4 million with incentives on a one-year deal. His presence is expected to be more than just physical; Joseph is anticipated to play a key mentoring role for Dallas’ 2023 first-round draft pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith. The young Smith stands to benefit greatly from Joseph's wealth of experience and technical prowess.
Last season, the Cowboys' run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, ranking them 16th in the NFL. With the addition of seasoned veterans like Joseph and new talents like Smith, the Cowboys are clearly aiming to improve these numbers and fortify their defensive front.
The strategic moves made by Jerry Jones indicate a clear plan to not only replace the departed talent but to enhance the overall quality and depth of the defensive line. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how these new additions gel with the existing squad and whether they can lead the Cowboys to a stronger defensive showing. For the Dallas Cowboys, the objective is unequivocal: to build a defense that can dominate the line of scrimmage and propel the team towards postseason success.