The pass rush is a collective effort from the DL. Of course, Players like Lawrence and Gregory will be judged and/or get the glory based on their sack totals. Although, I’d rather see a complete DL that spreads out the sack accumulation, like Gallimore, Hill, Urban, and Odigizuwa adding 3-5sacks themselves. And rotational DEs doing the same. If this happens, it will be difficult for teams to double team any one particular player.
Securing the middle and stopping the run is where it all starts. Making teams one dimensional by passing the ball, gives our defense a better chance for more sacks and turnovers. I believe Dallas has done a great job, under the current cap restraints, to rectify the run defense with additions like Urban, Bohanna, Odigizuwa, Basham, Golston, and Parsons. Throw in returning players like Gallimore and Hill, our run defense will be much improved.
That said, Lawrence and Gregory should have great years this season bc teams can’t focus solely on them. This should also allow players like Armstrong, Anae, and Golston to improve. Again, this is a collective effort that I feel confident will work.
Side note: I also feel like Terell Basham will be a player and surprise some folks. Not saying double digits sacks or anything, but 6-8sacks wouldn’t surprise me one bit. Basham excelled in 4-3 scheme in college, which the Jets 3-4 scheme did him no favors. He’s got a quick first step and some pass rush moves that make him intriguing. If Lawrence takes him under his wing.. he will be your answer at DE3.
