Cowboys Rumors: Evaluating fit if Dallas trades up for Kayvon Thibodeaux

Kayvon Thibodeaux’s fit with the Cowboys

The Oregon product is pretty versatile with where he can lineup. He operates well with his hand in the dirt and as a standup pass rusher. He also can manage snaps as a 3-4 outside linebacker if needed. However, defensive coordinator Dan Quinn primarily runs a 4-3, so he would spend most of his time on the line.

While the team doesn’t seem to have a for-sure starter opposite of DeMarcus Lawrence, Thibodeaux could come in and start immediately and allow Micah Parsons to fill more of the linebacker role. This, however, doesn’t mean Parsons would not rush the passer anymore, as he has shown he can power through the interior line or come around Thibs or Lawrence on the edge.

Imagine a world where the opposing defense is sending DLaw, Micah, and Kayvon at you every play. I’m trying not to get excited while writing this because I know the odds are slim, but the hypothetical is very entertaining to think about.

The defense could take another big step with the addition of Thibodeaux. While the pass rush improves, the run defense and even secondary will improve. With Thibs and DLaw always in the backfield, opposing quarterbacks will be forced to make quicker decisions, leading to mistakes. The fit in Dallas would be a match-made in Heaven, as long as coaches can keep him in check.