3 biggest strengths on the Dallas Cowboys roster after first couple of weeks of free agency
The Dallas Cowboys roster has mostly been affected by losses in the first couple of weeks of NFL free agency, leading to many positions being perceived as weaknesses. However, a look at the updated roster of the Cowboys reveals there are also strengths to discuss. Below are the three best position groups on the roster […]
The Dallas Cowboys roster has mostly been affected by losses in the first couple of weeks of NFL free agency, leading to many positions being perceived as weaknesses.
However, a look at the updated roster of the Cowboys reveals there are also strengths to discuss.
Below are the three best position groups on the roster as things stand just over a month from the 2024 NFL Draft.
Quarterback
Presumed starter(s): Dak Prescott
Backup(s): Trey Lance, Cooper Rush
As controversial as this will be because it's the Cowboys, we can't ignore the fact that Dak Prescott finished second in MVP voting last season. In a league where teams are desperate to have a franchise quarterback, having Prescott leading the offense should be perceived as a strength. While it's true postseason success needs to show at some point, the reality is the Cowboys are set at this crucial position and that their loss to the Green Bay Packers extended well beyond quarterback play.
Safety
Presumed starter(s): Malik Hooker, Donovan Wilson
Backup(s): Israel Mukuamu, Juanyeh Thomas, Markquese Bell, Sheldrick Redwine
Despite Jayron Kearse hitting free agency and being unlikely to return, this is a very strong unit in Dallas. Hooker and Wilson are quality starters and the latter is likely to thrive under Mike Zimmer's scheme as he'll be asked to blitz and make plays in the offensive backfield. Hooker has been great in coverage since arriving at Dallas.
But what really makes this group stand out is its depth. Mukuamu and Thomas are versatile guys that can step up in case of injuries. We don't know for sure that Markquese Bell is re-joining the safeties after transitioning to linebacker last August due to injuries to the LB room but it's likely.
EDGE
Presumed starter(s): Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence
Backup(s): Sam Williams, Viliami Fehoko, Tyrus Wheat, Durrell Johnson
Although depth needs to improve, having Parsons and Lawrence starting is enough for this position to still qualify as a Top 3 unit on the team. Parsons remains a yearly D.P.O.Y. candidate and one of the best pass rushers in the game. Lawrence might not have the pass rush production but he's one of the best run defenders in football.
Behind them though, only Sam Williams seems to have significant experience. How the Cowboys replace over 700 snaps of defense after losing Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. is key.
Dallas Cowboys’ updated roster after a costly first week of NFL free agency
What the team looks like right now.
