Dallas Cowboys: Who could step up in DeMarcus Lawrence’s absence?

If Lawrence’s cap hit does not apply to this season, then Dallas has some more proven players to pick from. Let’s take a look at them.

Jadeveon Clowney

The top defensive lineman in the free-agent market remains unsigned. Jadeveon Clowney has proven to be a very effective pass rusher and run stuffer. He would only be able to step in if Lawrence’s cap hit does not impact the Cowboys this season.

He was a three-time Pro Bowler when playing with the Houston Texans, but also played on the right side of the line. In 62 games he sacked the quarterback 29.0 times and made 205 tackles.

Let’s not push aside his ability to force turnovers with four forced fumbles and six fumble recoveries. Two of the fumbles were returned for a touchdown.

He showed his ability at reading the quarterback’s eyes and using his large frame to block passes at the line of scrimmage. He batted 11 passes, which is better than some cornerbacks.

After being traded to the Seattle Seahawks, Clowney was switched to the left side of the defensive line, where Lawrence plays. This was, unfortunately, Clowney’s worst season of his career.

In 13 games he sacked quarterbacks only 3.0 times and made 31 tackles. Then again, he did force four fumbles and recover two of them, with one being for a touchdown. Don’t forget three batted passes and one interception which was returned for a touchdown.

It was a down year regarding stopping the run and getting to the quarterback, but he still made big plays. The Cowboys should look at this as an opportunity to sign him for a cheaper one-year deal.

When you are missing your top defensive lineman, it is not easy to simply fill in the spot. Signing Clowney would be a good option to do this though.