Dallas Cowboys Defense: Regular Season Grades

Nov 24, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Sean Lee (50) runs with the ball after intercepting a two point conversion attempt in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 24, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Sean Lee (50) runs with the ball after intercepting a two point conversion attempt in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 24, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Sean Lee (50) runs with the ball after intercepting a two point conversion attempt in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 24, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Sean Lee (50) runs with the ball after intercepting a two point conversion attempt in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /

Dallas Cowboys Linebackers Grade: B+

Starting in the middle of the field, the Cowboys linebacker core took a hit in the offseason when Rolando McClain was hit with a season-long suspension for the NFL’s substance abuse policy.

The defense did not miss him.

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For the most part, the Cowboys linebackers were nothing special.

But Sean Lee continued his career of spectacular play, leading the team in tackles by far.

Cowboys fans heard Lee’s name called on just about every possession this season, consistently making big plays around the ball all year long.

Late offseason addition Justin Durant was solid this year, and as was Anthony Hitchens, stepping in for McClain.

Looking ahead, reinforcements are on the horizon as last year’s second round pick Jaylon Smith has seen progress in his damaged nerve and will be playing next season.

That’s not including any help that could be added through the draft or free agency.

The linebacker position looks to grow into a position of strength for the Cowboys in 2017 and beyond.