Unless we see a significant change to the roster, like signing a Bobby Wagner type of player LVE is the middle backer without question. Now we don't know what DQ may change from 2022 to 2023, but with what we know of the defense we will typically see a middle and weak side backer with a 3rd safety basically playing the strong side role. I think LVE can play all three LB positions however he's best suited for the middle, weak side is probably the worst thing you could do for him. He has the size and athleticism to run with TEs in the seam, he also does a heck of a job covering RBs. DQ didn't use LVE in a traditional run stopping middle backer position last season which I believe helped keep him healthy. Fans need to accept that LVEs role isnt an old school ultra aggressive quick fill approach, but instead more of a conservative LB having LVE take on the Olineman directly at the 2nd level and reading the RB. Ideally under this approach LVE shouldn't be racking up the tackle numbers as the goal is for the tackle to be made before the ball carrier gets to LVE....and when that doesnt happen LVE is there to clean it up and chase a RB down from behind which is where most people are critical of LVE. Reality is though that's just the system the Cowboys used in 2022. While I'm not a huge fan of this style of middle backer it fits what the Cowboys are doing and their personnel. It allows your playmakers up front be more aggressive and go for the minus plays that can kill drives for an offense. It also lets the back end of your defense be more aggressive so Kearse/Wilson can take more risks at the LOS. The interesting piece to keep an eye on though is during the playoffs DQ flipped the script a bit and had LVE playing a more aggressive style. My guess is that everyone on the Cowboys side knows this isn't a viable long term strategy with LVE, but we do know that DQ isn't afraid to let LVE attack situationally.
Moving LVE to the weak side I think is a bad move because now you need him to seal off the cutback lanes in the run game, and instead of covering TEs he is now taking on more matchups with WRs running crossing routes. Long term I think Clark could take on pretty much any role you ask him to, but the weak side backer is where I could see him plug in right away. Most backers his size get thrown inside right away, but Clark has the speed to stay outside IMO.
