2 players Cowboys must lean on amid Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence injuries

It is unrealistic to expect the Dallas Cowboys to have a season without any obstacles. It seems that every year something unexpected happens to challenge the team. After concerns arose about the team's performance in the first four games, the Cowboys received news that Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence would be sidelined due to injuries.

Of the two, Lawrence could be out the longest after he was officially placed on the injured reserve list earlier this week. Parsons was carted off the field in the second half of last week's win over the Giants, and while his timetable is shorter, it its equally devastating and consequential.

However, two specific Cowboys could be in line to make the extra step and become new leaders on this defense.

2 players Cowboys must lean on going forward

DeMarvion Overshown is the first person to come to mind when thinking about who can step up, as he is well on his way to becoming one of the best players on this defense. Based on his performance after four weeks, you could argue that he has been the best player on defense.

Overshown possesses all the qualities of a player that his teammates can rely on. He is physical, has elite quickness and closing speed, plays with a high motor and has a nose for the ball. His willingness to put his body on the line and throw himself at defenders has made him muse-see TV.

On the season, Overshown has accumulated 28 tackles and one sack while showcasing his increasing versatility with each game. He has demonstrated a level of experience that allows him to adapt to different positions on the field and react effectively to plays.

As we move forward, the Cowboys may rely heavily on Overshown to contribute more to the run defense in the absence of Parsons and Lawrence. Given his exceptional athleticism, we can expect him to excel in this aspect as well. Even though he's technically playing his first season, Overshown will be a key player for the defense to rally around during this challenging period.

Eric Kendricks has made a big difference early on and deserves credit for his efforts to bolster the Cowboys' defense. As the team's top tackler, Kendricks has excelled on an otherwise underwhelming defense. This is likely due to the rapport between Zimmer and Kendricks from their time together in Minnesota.

The hard-nosed Kendricks has recorded 100-plus tackles in eight of his 10 seasons in the NFL. Kendricks will be relied upon in the upcoming weeks, as his experience will provide him with an advantage in guiding players to maintain a fighting spirit, regardless of the team's direction.

Kendricks already possesses leadership qualities, so transitioning into an even bigger role as the prime defensive leader should come naturally to him.

The season does not look promising right now, but Overshown and Kendricks can be the guys to keep the defense afloat.

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