Dallas Cowboys: Thinning the herd at defensive line

With 11 veterans already on the roster, the Dallas Cowboys continued to add several rookies to the crowded defensive line room.

Heading into draft weekend, the Dallas Cowboys had 11 defensive linemen already under contract. Randy Gregory‘s return would add another protected player to the total. Most fans were expecting a new defensive tackle and possible edge rusher.

Instead Dallas added two tackles and three ends in the form of rookies. Excluding Gregory, the Cowboys will bring 16 defensive linemen into mini camp. In 2017, the season’s opening 53-man roster carried eight defensive linemen. Last season the unit ballooned to 10, the maximum before overkill harms other positions.

16 (possibly 17) players competing for 10 final roster spots that cover four positions sounds absurd. It’s time to weed through the logjam and unveil the likely casualties.

LOCKS FOR THE 53 (8)

DeMarcus Lawrence (DE)

Robert Quinn (DE) – veteran via trade

Taco Charlton (DE)

Dorance Armstrong (DE)

Tyrone Crawford (DL)

Maliek Collins (DT)

Antwaun Woods (DT)

Trysten Hill (DT) – rookie drafted RD2

Eight DL spots are spoken for from the first whistle. 2019’s top draft pick Trysten Hill is guaranteed. Antwaun Woods is a cheap, trusted contributor under exclusive rights until 2021. For varying reasons the rest are valued players only exiting via trade.

PENCIL IN THIS BIG BOY (1)

Christian Covington (DL) – veteran FA signing

Christian Covington is still young and a proven pro contributor worthy enough to start if needed. His versatility is exactly what the Cowboys defensive coaches value. Barring injury, Covington should make the 53.

SEVEN MAN BATTLE ROYAL (1)

Daniel Wise (DT) – rookie UFA signing

Joe Jackson (DE) – rookie drafted RD5

Kerry Hyder (DE) – veteran FA signing

Daniel Ross (DT)

Jalen Jelks (DE) – rookie drafted RD7

Ricky Walker (DL) – rookie UFA signing

Shakir Soto (DE) – veteran FA signing

Only one spot remains in Gregory’s absence. The above list is how I rank the pecking order. Daniel Wise is a good player who should’ve been drafted. Joe Jackson has virtues and his position and draft selection may win out if close.

Kerry Hyder logged 658 snaps and 8.0 sacks for the Detroit Lions in 2016. Proven pro production carries weight. Daniel Ross has already been a contributor in Dallas. The last three players will need to show well just to earn a practice squad invite.