The Dallas Cowboys defensive ends cause fans to scratch their heads. While there were some positive transactions during free agency, there were also significant losses. Namely, DeMarcus Lawrence to the Seahawks. And an even bigger, looming decision to be made about Micah Parsons. It’s difficult to see how the pieces of the puzzle fit together.
How Losing DeMarcus Lawrence Affects the Dallas Cowboys Defensive Ends
There’s No Replacing DeMarcus Lawrence
The Cowboys decided to part ways with DeMarcus Lawrence fter eleven seasons of elite football, and the Seattle Seahawks didn’t wait long to sign him. Although Lawrence managed to stay healthy the majority of his seasons, he didn’t in 2024. Losing Lawrence created a detrimental situation for the Cowboys. In several games, Dallas allowed running backs to eclipse 100 yards. Most of those came with Lawrence on the sidelines.
Yet, it can’t be ignored–Lawrence’s loss is huge. In both 2023 and 2024, he managed at least 11 stuffs and averaged five sacks per season. The system of play was more at fault for Lawrence’s lack of production in the previous season. But the Cowboys clearly didn’t see it that way and let him go. The manpower left in the shadow of Lawrence’s departure is good, but not nearly the same level.
Micah Parsons, Marshawn Kneeland, and Dante Fowler Jr. – The Remaining EDGE
Lawrence leaves Dallas with a direct replacement in Marshawn Kneeland. The rookie managed to get three stuffs in his first season, but didn’t stack up well in the tackles department. Kneeland only managed 14 total tackles in 11 games. That’s slightly above one per game. This means Kneeland won’t create the same production without a significant step in the right direction.
However, Kneeland isn’t alone. Dante Fowler Jr. returns to the Cowboys this season. Fowler Jr. played some incredible defense this past season. He managed 7.5 stuffs and 10.5 sacks. He’s a versatile player who can stop the run while also rushing the passer. Also, Fowler Jr. is proportionally the same size as Lawrence. Fowler Jr. has managed to play for five different football teams. His most recent stint with the Washington Commanders brought him to the NFC Championship. That alone makes him a more promising replacement than Kneeland.
The Cowboys also added Payton Turner, who’s a huge question mark. Turner needs to be developed substantially to be considered a threat on the field. Sam Williams should be back from his torn ACL injury over training camp. He was highly anticipated after the loss of depth last free agency. It’ll be interesting to see how he fits into this puzzle too.
Will Micah Parsons Stay with the Dallas Cowboys Defensive Ends?
The biggest question mark for contracts sits with Micah Parsons. Parsons wants a deal done sooner rather than later. It seems like the Cowboys are acting similarly to what they have done in the past. They could be kicking the can down the road and dealing with it next year. Especially since they just handed out massive money to Osa Odighizuwa.
After all, Parsons isn’t a free agent. But, the longer the Cowboys wait, the more expensive that contract becomes. Parsons can prove how much he’s worth with another season under his belt. Myles Garrett’s record-smashing contract only makes Parsons a more expensive buy-in. Yet with a major lack of proven talent, what else could the Cowboys possibly do?
Main Photo: Tim Heitman – Imagn Images
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