The Dallas Cowboys' defense was missing a lot of things last season. In 2021, they'll look to build on the positives that began to arise towards the end of the season, though. The secondary showed signs of improvement, and they got healthier. With more depth on the defensive line and at linebacker, the Cowboys and new DC Dan Quinn hope to be a much stronger unit this season. He expects them to play with a new confidence.

Dan Quinn when asked about Cowboys not having many defensive playmakers: "Great thing about football, you get to go out and prove it. I have a sense that there'll be some people on this defense that'll have very big chips on their shoulders with much to prove, coaches included."

— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 30, 2021

It sounds like the players are picking up on a vibe from their new coach as well. Fans should be happy about that after there were moments last season where there just seemed to be a disconnect between some players and prior DC Mike Nolan.

The defense's best player mentioned the new energy with Quinn at the helm now.

DeMarcus Lawrence on new Cowboys DC Dan Quinn: “He’s bringing the swagger back to this defense.”

— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) August 3, 2021

Not to mention, there have been quite a few bright spots on the defense so far in training camp. Multiple reports have gleamed about rookie Linebacker Micah Parsons, rookie Cornerback Nahshon Wright, and Cornerback Maurice Canady. That's just to name a few.

Micah Parsons said it was a relief to get his first NFL game out of the way.

Sounds like he’s ready to play some more, too. pic.twitter.com/iglBKD5Yxn

— Dave Helman (@davehelman_) August 6, 2021

Of course, it is training camp practice hype. Take it with a grain of salt if you'd like. It happens every year, but, regardless, hearing a plethora of positives from people that are watching the drills live is a lot better than hearing a lot of negatives.

Nahshon Wright uses his length to disrupt at each level of the route.

Terrific job in run support too. He’s another winner from tonight’s game.

— Jonah Tuls (@JonahTuls) August 6, 2021

Some quick thoughts so far on Cowboys camp beyond the obvious: Maurice Canady might be the biggest defensive surprise. He's played inside and out, been around the ball a lot. On offense, TE Sean McKeon might be that guy. Made some nice catches. One of those 2nd year jump guys

— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) August 1, 2021

It is also worth noting that Quinn's scheme will give the defense a new type of identity. That seemed to be lacking over the past couple of seasons. It'll be an aggressive game-plan, and physical play across the personnel will be vital to success.

Luckily, the outlooks of young CBs Trevon Diggs and Kelvin Joseph are positively impacted by the addition of Quinn as well.

On paper, they fit the mantra and build that he prefers in his Cornerbacks. Their development alongside the rest of the young defensive core will determine how much improvement actually occurs over the next handful of seasons in Dallas.

The likes of DeMarcus Lawrence, Jaylon Smith, and Keanu Neal will all bring energy to the group as per usual. It sounds like Quinn may be able to orchestrate that energy into exciting production.

DeMarcus Lawrence is a stud – enough said. #Cowboys pic.twitter.com/iOQNl13fo2

— John Owning (@JohnOwning) November 2, 2020

YOLO. Lit. Rad. Chill. Swag.

Whatever the phrase may be, Cowboys fans just hope it means the defense will be better in 2021 and beyond.