How close are the Dallas Cowboys to fielding a dominate defense?

With one or two more pieces, the Dallas Cowboys could easily have themselves one of the best defensive units in the entire NFL.

If this year’s NFL playoff run has proven anything, it’s the fact that there has been a defensive resurgence in the league. Suddenly, possessing a dominate defense seems much more important that finding a premier passer, with quarterbacks like Drew Brees and Cam Newton sidelined in the postseason by teams with the likes of Case Keenum and Nick Foles under center.

Suddenly, the phrase “defense wins championships” seems more relevant than ever … expect if you are the New England Patroits. But I digress. I think the fact three out of the four participants of last week’s conference championship games were rated no lower than fourth in total defense in the NFL last season proves my point.

Now, let’s turn our gaze to the Dallas Cowboys. A team typically known for their offensive prowess. Under defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli, the Cowboys defense has seen a resurgence. Often referred to as being an overachieving bunch, Dallas funneled seven of their nine draft picks on the defensive side of the ball in 2017, including their top three selections.

Long ignored as the Cowboys built up their now legendary offensive line, the defense in Dallas is starting to turn the corner due to that kind of draft commitment. And 2018 may be a case of rinse and repeat.

Although the Cowboys have several offensive needs, selecting 19th overall in the first round may force Dallas to look defensive first. On that side of the ball, there isn’t a single position that couldn’t use a draft upgrade. Defensive tackle, defensive end, linebacker, cornerback and safety all have their question marks. And overall roster depth was a real issue for Big “D” in 2017.

But that’s not to say the Cowboys don’t have pieces in place to field a dominating defense in 2018. Defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence is expected to be retained this offseason despite being a free agent. He was arguably the most consistent pass rusher in the NFL last season. Along the defensive line are some other promising players like defensive tackles David Irving and Maliek Collins plus fellow pass rusher Taco Charlton, coming off a promising rookie campaign.

When he was on the field, linebacker Sean Lee was still playing like an All-Pro. Heading into his third season, the sky appears to be the limit for young linebacker Jaylon Smith. And if the Cowboys could somehow re-sign Anthony Hitchens this offseason, Dallas would possess one of the most talented linebackers corps in the entire NFL.

Finally, let’s talk about the Cowboys secondary. After a complete roster drain last offseason, Dallas replenished this unit with young, hungry and talented defenders. Cornerbacks Jourdan Lewis, Chidobe Awuzie and Anthony Brown seem to be the nucleus of something very special in Dallas. Safety Jeff Heath improved as the season wore on, while young Kavon Frazier proved to be a good change of pace from former first round pick Byron Jones. How the Cowboys utilize Jones this year could make or break his career.

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All-in-all, I believe the Dallas Cowboys defense is one or two pieces away from being one of the most dominate units in the league. Don’t forget, this is a group who ranked 8th in total defense in 2017. If they can shore up the interior of their defensive line, stay relatively healthy and get solid production from their younger players; the Cowboys could easily have themselves a top five-level defense in 2018.