Dallas Cowboys: Randy Gregory’s return forces all eyes on D-Line
The Dallas Cowboys defensive line depth is outstanding and with the return of Randy Gregory, the defensive line will be fun to watch this preseason.
The Dallas Cowboys first NFL preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers on August 9th is less than two weeks away. Usually, preseason games aren’t newsworthy events because offensive and defensive coordinators tend to keep things simple. There is one group that doesn’t get to take any plays off and that’s the defensive line.
This preseason, I believe we should all be excited and focused on the Cowboys defensive line. The defense with a “vanilla” scheme will likely face “vanilla” offensive line schemes. I would expect a starting line up of Tyrone Crawford, Jihad Ward, Dorance Armstrong and DeMarcus Lawrence to showcase their skills for one quarter.
In the second quarter, the Cowboys will give defensive end and former second-round draft selection – Randy Gregory – a chance to show Cowboy Nation what we’ve been missing during his suspension for failing NFL substance abuse tests. Gregory has only played in two games during the last three NFL seasons.
The defensive line depth is outstanding. Once the starters are pulled, I’m looking forward to seeing Gregory opposite defensive end Kony Ealy demolishing the 49ers backup offensive tackle. Cowboy Nation will have to tone down their excitement and remember it’s only preseason.
During that first quarter of play, it will also be important to keep an eye on our newest middle linebacker, rookie Leighton Vander Esch playing next to Jaylen Smith and Sean Lee. I kept an eye on Smith last season and he was still a half-step slow to read and react to football plays. Lee doesn’t need any practice (in my Allen Iverson voice).
When a projected starter makes a play, I want them immediately whisked to the sideline. The NFL window for success is too short and I don’t want anyone to suffer an injury during a meaningless preseason game like the incredibly amazing Cowboys former quarterback Tony Romo did. #KnockOnWood
After the defense gets you excited, all eyes will be on quarterback Dak Prescott and his receiver group that doesn’t include former wide receiver Dez Bryant and tight end Jason Witten. I wonder – how many passing yards will get Cowboy Nation excited?
If you’re tired of hearing about Bryant, then Prescott needs to connect with receivers Cole Beasley, Allen Hurns and third-round draft pick Michael Gallup early and often. I wouldn’t expect running back Ezekiel Elliott to get any rushing attempts during the first three preseason games. That provides Dallas with an opportunity to show defenses that the Cowboys’ aerial attack needs to be respected this upcoming season.
Preseason games give an opportunity to those undrafted free agents to make an impression with coaches and scouts. The Cowboys usually appear to have a fair and open competition at multiple spots. Many undrafted free agents have had success finding employment with Dallas – like wide receiver Cole Beasley and former players Tony Romo and safeties Barry Church and Jeff Heath.
Only the NFL wants fans to believe that the NFL preseason record matter. Wins and losses are irrelevant during the preseason. The goal is for players to prove to coaches that they belong on the field and can be trusted to make plays when given the opportunity. It is a chance for a player to move up the depth chart, reach the special teams squad or get signed elsewhere.
Have fun cheering for that underdog, dark horse player. Just save the emotions and heavy trash talk until the regular season when the games matter.
Next. Dallas Cowboys 15 best first-round picks of all-time. dark
To paraphrase the words of our former wide receiver and newest Hall of Fame member Terrell Owens – Get your popcorn and your memes ready.
It’s almost go time!
#GoCowboys