The Dallas Cowboys of old were no strangers to high-profile players. There was a time when Owner/GM Jerry Jones loved to gamble, and salary cap woes weren’t a thing at all.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m glad that the team has gained some stability on that front, even though I feel like they over corrected and need to adjust the wheel to spend more in free agency or trades.
There have been some bad deals since the Cowboys last experienced deep playoff success. Perhaps the bad taste from some of those deals is what prompted Jones to take a more conservative approach.
That conservative approach ended up being a drastic change by the Cowboys, and they have become notorious for signing their own over outside free agents.
One of their own has already decided to retire, but there was another player besides RG Zack Martin from the same draft who I would like the Cowboys to bring back: DeMarcus “Tank” Lawrence.
Lawrence is a free agent, but has already been quoted saying he prefers to stay in Dallas over any other team, as long as the price is right.
There are a few reasons why bringing Tank back to new DC Matt Eberflus’ defense is in the Cowboys’ best interests.
Oh Captain, My Captain
DeMarcus Lawrence has been a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense since he was drafted with the 34th overall pick of the 2014 NFL Draft.
Over his career, he has developed into an elite run defender with pass-rushing skills. With 61.5 career sacks (all in Dallas), Lawrence has consistently shown to be a reliable defensive end for the Cowboys.
His leadership extends beyond the field. As a veteran, Lawrence plays a key role in mentoring younger players on the defensive line and has been a calming and guiding presence in the locker room.
Re-signing Lawrence would ensure that the Cowboys continue to have a strong voice on defense who understands the culture and expectations of the team.
Tank of All Trades
Lawrence might not have gaudy sack numbers, but he has a level of consistent, tough play on the defensive line, and he has reached 61.5 career sacks in his 11-year career with the Cowboys.
In 2024, he had just 3.0 sacks, and hasn’t hit double-digit sack numbers since racking up 10.5 sacks during the 2018 season. However, most of his impact is felt in the run game.
We are in an era where rushing the passer is glorified, but rush defense is often overlooked. Lawrence has a well-rounded skillset, and his ability to consistently set the edge has been an invaluable benefit for the Cowboys defense.
As offenses evolve and more teams are moving back to a run-first scheme, it’s important to have players who can handle both the pass rush and run-stopping duties.
He might be a little longer in the tooth, but Lawrence has proven he can still do both.
One More Round
Throughout his tenure with the Cowboys, DeMarcus Lawrence has made it clear that he is committed to bringing a Super Bowl to Dallas.
He has been through the ups and downs of the Cowboys’ recent seasons, and has expressed his desire to return to Dallas with the hopes of finally reaching that championship.
His emotional attachment to the team and city adds a level of pride and passion to the defense, making him even more invested in the success of the franchise.
Bringing Tank back would allow him to complete his legacy as one of the all-time great Cowboys defenders. That’s something he deserves, and we’d all like to see.
With his proven ability as a pass-rusher and run defender, leadership on and off the field, and a clear understanding of what it takes for the team to reach the next level, Lawrence remains a key piece of the team’s immediate future and quest for a sixth Lombardi Trophy.
Do the right thing, Cowboys. Re-sign DeMarcus Lawrence.