The Dallas Cowboys top five position battles of 2017

Position Battle #5 – Strong Side Linebacker

With All-Pro linebacker Sean Lee manning the weak side, or Will, linebacker spot and all signs indicating that 2016 second round pick Jaylon Smith will be healthy enough to start at middle linebacker, the competition for that third starting linebacker spot is wide open.

In defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli’s 4-3 defensive scheme, the strong side- or Sam, linebacker isn’t as important to the defense as the weak side backer or the middle.

More often than not, the strong side linebacker is only on the field on first and second down, typically being replaced by the nickel cornerback to face three wide receiver formations.

The Sam linebacker’s duties are more of the dirty work. Key traits include having ideal length to extend on lead blockers at the point of attack and having the ability to cover tight ends on the strong side of the formation.

Having good length and a strong frame is key because they are on the strong side of the formation, where the majority of run plays are designed to go in the NFL. So while you don’t have to be extremely gifted as an athlete, having good instincts and a willingness to stick your nose in there and hold up in the run game are key attributes.

The Cowboys have many talented linebackers but most of them are more ideal fits at the weak side or middle linebacker positions in this defense. That won’t stop them from fighting to try and earn that strong side starting spot when camp gets underway.