Based on free agency through today

[CCBoy]

Cowboys EDGE​

Starter:
Micah Parsons
Dante Fowler Jr.
Dallas brought back Dante Fowler Jr. which was a major coup for this defensive front. He was a solid rotational piece but will be the starter this year — and is coming off a massive campaign with Washington. His addition softens the blow of losing both DeMarcus Lawrence and Chauncey Golston.

Reserves:
Sam Williams
Marshawn Kneeland
Payton Turner
Tyrus Wheat
Luiji Vilain
Sam Williams missed all of 2024 with a torn ACL and should give this defense a spark if healthy. Marshawn Kneeland showed promise as an edge setter during his rookie season but needs to take a step forward in year two.

https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/arti...rades_dl_breakdown_analysis/s1_16709_41921117

 

[CCBoy]

Cowboys Defensive Tackles
Starters:
Osa Odighizuwa
Mazi Smith

It felt as though the Cowboys were going to lose Osa Odighizuwa following a breakout performance in 2024, but they came to terms on a four-year extension. That keeps them solid at the 3-tech but there are questions at nose tackle.

Mazi Smith as the size and power but hasn’t put it all together. This is a critical year for him and he might be running out of chances.

Reserves:
Solomon Thomas
Justin Rogers
Denzel Daxon
Earnest Brown

Solomon Thomas was the big addition thus far at tackle. He might not bring a lot of excitement but he knows defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton well and is an experienced 3-tech.

Justin Rogers and Denzel Daxon have yet to play a snap but the 338-pound Rogers is an interesting prospect at the 1-tech. Earnest Brown has been in the league for several years but is likely a camp body.

Grade: B+​