Dallas Cowboys: 3 primed for a bounce back season in 2020

Here are three Dallas Cowboys we believe are primed for a return to form in 2020

The Dallas Cowboys are expecting big things in 2020. Under new head coach Mike McCarthy, the Cowboys are certainly hoping the former Super Bowl-winner can take America’s Team to new heights.

A bounce-back performance by some of their star players should help McCarthy and company achieve those lofty goals. Here are three Cowboys that we believe are primed to return to form in 2020.

Leighton Vander Esch, LB

Named a Pro Bowler after racking up an incredible 140 total tackles, seven pass deflections, and two interceptions during his rookie season, linebacker Leighton Vander Esch seemed destined for a stellar career in Dallas.

Unfortunately, the 23-year old played just nine games last season due to a neck injury, recording 72 tackles. After having offseason neck surgery to alleviate nerve issues, Vander Esch claims he feels as good as he ever has, even better than before the injury. And he’s ready to bounce back in Year Three.

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DeMarcus Lawrence, DE

After signing a massive five-year, $105 million extension in early 2019, defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence posted just 5.0 sacks last season. But his presence aided fellow pass rusher Robert Quinn in racking up 11.5 sacks which resulted in him signing a five-year, $70 million deal with the Chicago Bears as a free agent this offseason.

Entering his seventh season in the NFL, Lawrence understands his worth. Tank knows that his efforts don’t always impact the stat sheet. In fact, his play last season helped others boost their stats and Lawrence is fully confident his own sack numbers will rise.

Can Aldon Smith be the Dallas Cowboys’ new Robert Quinn?

Aldon Smith, DE

It’s fairly easy to have a bounce-back season when you’ve been out of football completely for four years. Just getting back onto an NFL playing field is an accomplishment. But looking back at Aldon Smith‘s final year with the Oakland Raiders, the pass rusher recorded 28 tackles and 3.5 sacks over nine games.

Playing opposite DeMarcus Lawrence, Smith could benefit in the same way defensive end Robert Quinn did in Dallas last season. He should also be aided by the presence of new defensive tackles Gerald McCoy and Dontari Poe in the middle of that defensive line.

Reportedly in terrific shape, Aldon Smith is set to attempt a professional comeback. Still only 30-years old, Smith joins the Dallas Cowboys in an ideal situation for a bounce-back performance from when he last played back in 2015.