Strengths, weaknesses, wildcards at Cowboys DE include 2nd-round pick expectations

USA Today

a day ago

The Dallas Cowboys entered the 2025 offseason with loads of questions at defensive end. DeMarcus Lawrence and Chauncey Golston were scheduled to hit free agency, Micah Parsons was just a year of away from the market himself, Sam Williams was rehabbing a knee injury, and Marshawn Kneeland was coming off a disappointing rookie campaign. It was likely the Cowboys were looking for a new starter and at least one rotational DE just to survive the 2025 season. They probably needed more.
While Lawrence and Golston did indeed depart in free agency, familiar face Dante Fowler came back to presumably fill the void. Dallas added names to the bottom of the depth chart but also swung big in the draft, essentially stealing pass rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku at No. 44.
Parsons' extension has yet to be done but it looks like it's close to fruition and suddenly the Cowboys DE situation looks far better than it did six months ago.
Cowboys' DE strengths: Micah Parsons
Could it be anything else? Over the years Parsons has established himself as arguably the most efficient pass rusher in the NFL. He has next-level explosiveness and power that make him an asset in both phases of the game. Not to mention his shear presence opens up opportunities for pass rushing teammates all the way down the line.
Cowboys' DE weaknesses: run defense
Parsons is a good run defender but behind him it's hard to find a standout. The hole left by Lawrence can be filled by Fowler in the pass rush department, but Fowler can't touch Lawrence's play against the run. Kneeland has the size and strength to be a plus run defender this year but last seen he struggled mightily in this phase of the game. Williams and Ezeiruaku are pass rushers first and will be hard-pressed to perform on the right side of the Mendoza Line.
It's possible Solomon Thomas, technically a defensive tackle, can push outside in running situations and elevate the Cowboys' run defense. Payton Turner, another veteran addition, could also step in as run stopping specialist at DE. There are options on the Dallas depth chart but nothing specifically that calms the nervous waters.
Cowboys' biggest wildcard: Sam Williams
Since rookies like Ezeiruaku rarely hit the ground running as defensive linemen, the breakout player to watch is none other than Williams. Williams has seemed primed for breakout for two years now but a season ending knee injury ended his bid last year before the season even started.
Logic says he'll be given every opportunity to be a breakout star in 2025 and if he does, he could elevate the Cowboys pass rush to new heights. Williams has immense talent and brings with him a striking physique. If he can join Parsons as a force the Cowboys will be in great shape.
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