3 biggest post-preseason concerns for the Dallas Cowboys

The pass rush

Yes, I’m aware that optimism is at its usual high for the future of defensive end Randy Gregory. If we’re being all the way honest though, there is no real reason to feel that way.

Gregory has never had more than six sacks in a season and has just 10.5 in 38 games. This preseason, he’s had very good practices but played exactly zero snaps in any game. Did he earn this treatment or are the Dallas Cowboys very aware that they are thin when it comes to guys who can get after the opposing quarterback?

DeMarcus Lawrence is coming off of back surgery and just very recently was even activated. His practice time has almost completely consisted of working himself into football shape. Fellow end Dorance Armstrong has had a breakout camp but, again, has yet to really show out when the games count.

Beyond those three, pressure will need to be manufactured either by blitzing or a lot of different guys will all need to chip in from various spots. While there is a new regime defensively, history says that pressuring the quarterback has never really been a strong suit for this team in the last five years.

In a perfect world, the starting offensive line will stay intact and not miss a game. No other players will contract the coronavirus and Lawrence, Gregory, and Armstrong will collectively put up 25+ sacks. As we all know, however, it’s rare that things consistently break right for the Dallas Cowboys. Fingers crossed, these issues are non-issues and we can all have a great 2021.