Given where we're at in the NFL offseason, it's nearly impossible to project where the Dallas Cowboys will finish next season. While the free agency frenzy is over, the 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner, meaning Dallas' roster will look a lot different between now and training camp.
Speaking of change, fans' expectations will hinge on what the linebacker room looks like a month from now.
The Cowboys sought out linebackers in free agency, making competitive offers for both Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker, but came away empty-handed. Reports have connected them to Dolphins' All-Pro Jordyn Brooks and Texans' thumper Azeez Al-Shaair, but nothing has come together.
Cowboys fans are rightfully on edge, as Dallas' LB room is maybe the worst in football. Thankfully, Brian Schottenheimer has provided some needed clarity (h/t Tommy Yarrish, DallasCowboys.com).
"We made a run at some guys in free agency. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn't. And what do you do? You just adjust. It's something we're working on 365, 24-7.
We've got a good plan. We've got firepower now going into the draft. We're not done. We're always open for business. So part of it's going to be [DeMarvion Overshown] having a tremendous year. Shemar James is a guy we're excited about. But we recognize we've got to fill some holes there."
The Dallas Cowboys recognize they need more help at linebacker
Music to our ears.
The Cowboys will have a lot riding on DeMarvion Overshown, regardless of what additions they make between now and July. A third-round pick in 2023, Overshown is entering a contract year having played just 19 of a possible 51 games due to two separate devastating knee injuries.
Even if they trade for Brooks or Al-Shaair, they need Overshown to stay healthy for the defense to reach its full potential.
Needless to say, though, that Schottenheimer's quote all but confirms a new linebacker is on the way. Whether they arrive before or after the NFL Draft remains to be seen.
Dallas is no stranger to wheeling and dealing post-draft (they traded for George Pickens last May), but it's safe to assume fans would prefer a trade or signing to take place before April 23. The last thing this team needs is the front office reconsidering its need for a veteran presence because it drafted a rookie with one of its first three picks.
Make no mistake: A veteran is badly needed.
Schottenheimer conceded that the Cowboys could find their next field general in the draft, but that it depends "on who the guy is and what their football instincts are and things like that." It seems the head coach would prefer someone with NFL experience, and understandably so, as Christian Parker is installing a brand-new defense.
The good news is that veterans are always available at the right price and Dallas has reportedly pivoted away from Steelers starter Patrick Queen after initial interest, signaling they won’t just plug a hole as they did with Kenneth Murray last year.
A move is coming. It's just a matter of who and when.