Three Dallas Cowboys poised for a breakout season
By Brad Austin
DEMARCUS LAWRENCE (Right defensive end)
Last week I wrote about my belief coaches would move DeMarcus Lawrence from the left defensive end spot he occupied in mini-camp over to the right side.
I assumed it would take inconsistency from the right end group in camp practices to prompt moving their best pass rusher over the left tackle.
Wouldn’t you know it defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli didn’t wait one practice. Lawrence began camp as the starting end on the right side.
Lawrence is entering his fourth year, but 2017 will only be the second time he’s available to play in the opener.
He missed the first eight games of 2014 due to injury. Then sat out the first four games of 2016 on suspension.
2015 was the only full season of his Cowboys career and the Boise State star racked up a team-leading eight sacks.
Lawrence is now fully healthy and playing on the last year of his contract. He has one chance to boost market value beyond a quality starter into the marque category.
He’ll certainly be an upgrade at rush end over 2016 starter Benson Mayowa (6 sacks).
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Lawrence has all the tools to pair with improved health and career motivation. Look for the veteran to be the first Cowboy to reach double-digit sacks since 2013.