Dallas Cowboys score big agreeing to sign Everson Griffen
The Dallas Cowboys are signing defensive end Everson Griffen to a one-year, $6 million deal.
NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported the Dallas Cowboys signing of Everson Griffen on Wednesday night. The Cowboys organization confirmed the report later that evening, stating that it was a one-year, $6 million deal.
The signing supposedly came out of nowhere, with Griffen narrowing a decision down to either the Seattle Seahawks or the Minnesota Vikings, who both showed interest in Griffen for the 2020 season.
The Cowboys fill the void of losing edge rusher Robert Quinn in free agency with the acquisition of Griffen. Griffen had a strong season with the Minnesota Vikings in 2019, finishing with 8.0 sacks, 11.0 tackles for loss, and 41.0 total tackles through 15 starts. Griffen has made the Pro Bowl four of the last five seasons with the Vikings, establishing himself as a reliable starter in the league for a defense.
What it means for the Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys defense now has a very strong defensive line. A defensive line filled with defensive ends DeMarcus Lawrence, Everson Griffen, Aldon Smith, Tyrone Crawford, and defensive tackles Gerald McCoy, Dontari Poe, and Antwaun Woods. This gives the Cowboys many different formations and schemes to use different personnel on the field.
Adding another reliable pass-rusher opposite of DeMarcus Lawrence provides more help to their Cowboys’ secondary, arguably the team’s weakest position group. Griffen will provide a quick rush to the passer, giving the opposing receivers less time to get open before the opposing quarterback has to get rid of the ball to avoid a sack.
The Cowboys were able to get Griffen on a relatively cheap one-year rental, allowing the team not to be tied down to him long-term while trying to complete other extensions on the team. The team hopes for Griffen to be a talented playmaker on the defensive line in the 2020 season and playoffs.
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The acquisition of Griffen adds even more expectations to a highly talented Cowboys roster. The team hopes to compete in the 2020 season for a Super Bowl, with new head coach Mike McCarthy, and a juggernaut offensive unit.