The direct influence of Parsons upon this very group is a very relevant and observable element in the mix. Again Mr. Parsons, we all love your highlight reels, but make this defense rock hard and aggressive starting out with your linebackers!!
Mike - The linebackers for Dallas look to be the weakest position group on defense, so to be anxious about the position is understandable. The plan for now will be for the coaches to see what they have at training camp before making any sort of decision to scout the free agent market for a player. Regardless, the position right now does look light and could do with more depth. That doesn’t mean they don’t have faith or concerns in the players they have. Leighton Vander Esch was a solid player last year and bringing in Johnathan Hankins up front helped him last year, so you would think the addition of Mazi Smith will also help. Jabril Cox still has questions due to the injury, but when healthy has a shot. As for Damone Clark, I think he’s going to take the next step and be the guy making all the plays that come his way. Don’t take your eye off rookies Isaiah Land and Tyrus Wheat either, they can make the team’s final roster if they flash enough.
Brandon - I think the linebacker position this year is like when your mom told you to clean up your room and you proceed to stuff everything in the closet—you hope no one notices and can address the problem some other time. The Cowboys have one of the youngest linebacker corps I can remember, which could be a good thing. It’s full of potential and could bring a lot of speed to Dan Quinn’s defense. However, Leighton Vander Esch and Damone Clark have a visible injury history that limits confidence in playing 17 games.
Don’t be surprised if they get halfway through training camp and re-sign someone like Anthony Barr to bring more depth. Barr knows the defense and wanted to take time to decide on his NFL future like last season. It would be an easy fit for a need.
https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/202...-wide-receiver-depth-jalen-tolbert-jabril-cox