Inside The Star
After sorting through the offensive side of the ball, the focus now shifts to defense and special teams.
Just like with the offense, the Dallas Cowboys’ depth has made this process extremely difficult. Some decisions, however, are being forced by circumstance.
I predict four defensive players will begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list: linebacker DeMarvion Overshown and cornerbacks Josh Butler, Shavon Revel, and Caelen Carson.
By rule, they will be sidelined for at least the first four games before being eligible to return.
On the special teams front, the Cowboys will likely perform their annual roster “magic trick” by releasing vested veterans ST ACE C.J. Goodwin and LS Trent Sieg.
Because vested veterans don’t have to clear waivers, the team can bring them back to the practice squad, temporarily opening up roster spots for depth at other positions.
With those factors considered, here’s how I predict the defense and specialists will round out the 53-man roster.
Micah Parsons, Marshawn Kneeland, Donovan Ezeiruaku, Dante Fowler Jr., Sam Williams, James Houston
Micah Parsons is the crown jewel of the Cowboys’ defense, one of the league’s most feared pass rushers despite his current contract stalemate.
Opposite him, 2nd round pick Marshawn Kneeland has impressed with his motor and length, showing starter-level potential already. Donovan Ezeiruaku flashed throughout camp and earned his place as a rotational rusher for his rookie campaign.
Dante Fowler Jr. provides veteran experience, while James Houston is a sneaky addition who can rush the passer in sub-packages.
Sam Williams rounds out the group with athletic upside and has shown improved discipline this offseason. This is one of the deepest edge groups in the league.
Missed the cut: Payton Turner, Tyrus Wheat
Osa Odighizuwa, Mazi Smith, Solomon Thomas, Perrion Winfrey, Earnest Brown IV
Osa Odighizuwa remains the most consistent interior disruptor on the roster, while Mazi Smith likely only makes the team out of necessity and organizational pride.
Veteran Solomon Thomas brings experience and versatility, able to play across multiple spots on the line.
Perrion Winfrey provides depth and pass-rush upside from the inside, with the capability to take his game to the edge if needed.
Earnest Brown IV, officially listed as a defensive end, makes the roster because of his flexibility to slide inside when needed.
That kind of positional versatility is exactly what the Cowboys’ defensive line thrives on.
Missed the cut: Jay Toia, Denzel Daxon
Kenneth Murray Jr., Marist Liufau, Jack Sanborn, Damone Clark, Shemar James
With Overshown headed to PUP, this linebacker group takes shape around Kenneth Murray Jr., who was signed to bring speed and range in the middle.
Marist Liufau stood out with his instincts and special teams ability in his second season. Jack Sanborn is a tackling machine who solidified his role as a dependable reserve.
Damone Clark is expected to take another step forward after showing flashes of sideline-to-sideline speed last season.
Rounding it out, Shemar James...
