The Dallas Cowboys’ defense showed serious potential in 2018. At times, their defense was downright dominating. But, it’s no secret they had trouble maintaining that dominance as the season went on. Fortunately for Cowboys fans, there should be far fewer struggles in 2019.
DeMarcus Lawrence is no longer a “secret weapon.” Offensive coordinators around the league have taken notice of Tank. Back to back seasons with double-digit sacks will make you the focal point of the defense. What’s more impressive is the fact that he reached that achievement with a nagging shoulder injury.
Randy Gregory, whose availability is currently in limbo, pitched in with 6 sacks. The versatile Tyrone Crawford also added 5.5 to the team’s total. But, aside from Tank, there weren’t any game-wrecking players on the defensive line. No one else commanded the attention as Tank did.
Those days should be over in Dallas.
The man all Cowboys fans should be paying attention to is Robert Quinn. While his name might not carry the weight it once did, acquiring him was still a fantastic move. At one time, Quinn was one of the most feared pass rushers in all of football. From 2012-2014, he posted double-digit sack seasons. Whether he is an immediate starter or situational pass rusher, he’s an upgrade. He also brings some veteran savvy to a very youthful position group.
After years of neglecting the defensive tackle position, and suffering because of it, the Cowboys drafted Trysten Hill in the second round of the draft. Much like Quinn, Hill will be an immediate upgrade regardless of his role. Hill showed flashes of being very disruptive against the run and pass in college. He has the “quick twitch” that Rod Marinelli searches for in every player. Adding a legitimate interior presence to an upgraded edge rush could spell trouble for opposing offenses.
These 2 additions alone could take the group from solid to great. The line now has the depth to take advantage of the attention Tank receives and stand up to injury.
Rod Marinelli should have a BLAST in 2019.
