Dallas Cowboys: Rookie has Seemingly Taken Over Starting Position
What has been the secret to the Dallas Cowboys defensive success? Truthfully there are a number of reasons. Dan Quinn's scheme and ability to put players where they thrive. Micah Parsons playing at an elite level. The upgraded coverage play of CB Trevon Diggs. Aden Durde and the overall advancement of the defensive line. The […]
What has been the secret to the Dallas Cowboys defensive success? Truthfully there are a number of reasons.
Dan Quinn's scheme and ability to put players where they thrive. Micah Parsons playing at an elite level. The upgraded coverage play of CB Trevon Diggs. Aden Durde and the overall advancement of the defensive line. The depth and improved play of the safeties.
All of these are correct, but what can't be overseen is the improved play of the first and second year defenders on defense. Edge rushers Sam Williams and Chauncey Golston, defensive tackles Osa Odighizuwa and Quinton Bohanna, defensive backs DaRon Bland and Israel Mukuamu, and another play whom some didn't think would play in 2022 at all.
LB Damone Clark has been a revelation in the second level. Upon his return from a spinal fusion, he has been thrust into extended play alongside Parsons and Vander Esch.
With an increased role as a starter in the absence of Anthony Barr. Who continues his rehab from a hamstring injury.
In these four games, he continues to improve and leave an impact on an already good defense.
Starting with the run defense, what Clark has that Barr and Vander Esch lack is down field speed. All can move laterally and meet the ball carrier on the edges assuming the defensive line have done their jobs.
What Clark offers is an escape plan. With the assumption a pulling guard or tight end is lead blocking to the outside and the running back is turning up field, Clark has the speed to track him down.
In Coverage, it offers the Dallas Cowboys an avenue to allow him to cover either a running back or tight end (often across from Jayron Kearse). Leaving Leighton Vander Esch in the middle, and Micah Parsons to rush freely.
On the season, Clark has allowed four catches for 30 yards, with two of these receptions going for negative yardage. Clark has a total of 17 tackles, a tackle for loss and a forced fumble. All on only 136 snaps in four games (34 snaps/game average).
He is becoming so valuable that even when Barr eventually returns, it's unclear if Clark will go back to a rotational role.
Head coach Mike McCarthy is in high praise of the young linebacker. Saying Clark is "… a very bright light. He’s a young man that’s gonna be impactful around here for a long time… I think we’re seeing the beginning of an outstanding career."
Even as a veteran, the Dallas Cowboys defense can't afford to go back to Barr in a full time role. While Barr still has plenty to offer as a pass rusher, we're seeing the present and future in no. 33. He is too valuable to take away.
Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
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