Victor Butler could be a huge beneficiary of Ryan's style. (AP Photo/Darren Abate)

The Cowboys were awful on defense last year — historically bad, in fact. You could make a pretty strong argument that they were the worst defense in franchise history. Yesterday, they re-signed Gerald Sensabaugh, ensuring that they will return 10 of 11 starters from last years’ dismal unit. Much is being made over this and rightfully so. The defense ineptitude was tough to watch and the single biggest factor in the fiasco that was the 2010 season. However, it’s important to remember that this exact same group was a borderline dominant defense in 2009 and there is no reason why they can’t get back to that level.

Last year, Wade Phillips completely lost his team some time during training camp, and, not surprisingly, the unit that he specifically coached was a big problem.  But, they still have talent.  DeMarcus Ware might be the best defensive player on the planet.  Even the biggest Cowboy hater will concede that.  Jay Ratliff is an absolute beast.  Bradie James still has something to give and Sean Lee is a player on the rise.  This defense has the potential to be at least decent again.  Last year, they went soft under Phillips.  They need a culture change.  They need to play with a big ole’ chip on their shoulders.  And, Rob Ryan seems like he is just the guy to help them get their swagger back. (more…)