3 biggest strengths on the Cowboys’ 2022 roster
By Jerry Trotta
2. Linebacker/Edge
We wanted to give linebacker the nod here because of Micah Parsons, but the position has major question marks behind the 23-year-old phenom. With Parsons already solidified as one of the best defenders in the NFL, Dallas just needs one of Leighton Vander Esch or Jabril Cox to be solid to make LB a massive strength.
Given that’s a huge hypothetical, the edge position will split the cake with linebacker. After all, Parsons finished with 13 sacks, 67 pressures and 30 QB hits en route to winning the Defensive Rookie of the Year award in unanimous fashion, proving he’s just as effective with his hand in the dirt as an outright LB.
Beyond Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence returns on a reworked contract as one of the most underrated defensive ends in the game. His sack output leaves a lot to be desired, but his worth goes deeper than QB takedowns. He’s a selfless pass rusher and is as good as they come on the edge against the run.
Add Dante Fowler’s potential to pop after reuniting with Dan Quinn, Dorance Armstrong coming off a career year in 2021 and second-round pick Sam Williams to the mix and you’ll realize EDGE could be a big-time strength for the Cowboys.