It's been a whirlwind offseason for the Dallas Cowboys' defensive line, marked by substantial changes and high-impact moves aimed at bolstering the front. These changes come on the heels of significant departures, challenging team owner and general manager Jerry Jones to act swiftly and decisively.
The Cowboys lost several critical players, including edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., who both signed with the Washington Commanders. Also departing were defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, who moved to the Seattle Seahawks, and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore, now with the Miami Dolphins. The exits of Armstrong and Fowler, in particular, left glaring gaps in Dallas's defensive line.
In response, Jerry Jones wasted no time in restocking the team’s defensive arsenal. The first major move came on August 15, when Jones orchestrated a trade with the New York Giants. The Cowboys acquired veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick, also securing a future seventh-round pick in the deal. This initial reinforcement was quickly complemented by the signing of veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson.
Linval Joseph: The Veteran Anchor
Perhaps the most substantial addition to the Cowboys' defensive lineup came with the signing of 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. Known for his towering presence, the 35-year-old Joseph stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 329 pounds. Originally selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, Joseph brings with him a wealth of experience, having played for the Giants, Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills.
Joseph's career stats speak volumes: 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles over 186 career games, including 170 starts. His accomplishments include two Pro Bowl selections during his time with the Minnesota Vikings in 2016 and 2017, and he was a part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning team in 2011. Joseph’s one-year contract with Dallas includes $2.5 million guaranteed and can escalate to $4 million with performance incentives.
Mentorship and Strategic Impact
The seasoned Joseph is expected to play a pivotal role, not only in the defensive line but also as a mentor to the Cowboys' promising young talent, particularly 2023 first-round pick defensive tackle Mazi Smith. Joseph's vast knowledge and experience are invaluable assets that could significantly influence Smith's development and performance.
The defensive reinforcement comes at a crucial time. Last season, Dallas's run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, placing them 16th in the NFL. With Joseph anchoring the line, the Cowboys are aiming for a much-improved performance in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, Jerry Jones’ swift and calculated moves have positioned the Cowboys to tackle defensively with renewed vigor. The addition of seasoned veterans like Jordan Phillips and Linval Joseph, combined with the promising presence of young talents like Mazi Smith, sets the stage for a potentially formidable defensive lineup. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how these changes translate on the field for Dallas.