While the terms have yet to be announced, the Cowboys are bringing back defensive tackle Carlos Watkins on a one-year contract. Originally drafted by the Texans in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Watkins played four seasons in Houston. A role player, he never played more than 49% of snaps in a season. He also recorded just four sacks in his four years in Houston.
Watkins then signed a one-year deal with the Cowboys in 2021. With little expected of him, he became a valuable member of Dan Quinn's defense. Starting in fourteen of the fifteen games he played in, Watkins tallied 32 tackles and one sack in 2021. He even notched his first career interception and returned it for a touchdown against the Saints. He earned a solid PFF Grade of 60.8 for his efforts in the 2021 season.
Cowboys are re-signing DT Carlos Watkins on a one-year contract, source said. He started 14 games in 2021 with 32 tackles, one sack and an interception he returned for a touchdown.
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) March 23, 2022
In 2022, Watkins again figures to be a crucial part of a defensive tackle rotation that features Trysten Hill, Neville Gallimore, Osa Odighizuwa, and Quinton Bohanna. A group that will likely see some additions through the NFL Draft, Watkins may find himself starting on week one of the NFL season. However, this is likely not preferred in Dallas as Watkins is really more of a depth option.
Good signing. Really wasn’t comfortable going in with only Bohanna at the 1-tech and their aversion to drafting run stopping tackles earlier than the late rounds.
Still wish they would have brought back Justin Hamilton, too.
They might still resign Urban. He was their best run stopper before his injury, and not coincidentally the run defense got worse with him out. Have heard some calling for the Boys to sign N Suh. Not a bad idea if it’s reasonable.
Watkins was a solid move for depth purpose….but can we really consider it “Breaking News”
LOL
Give me Urban and draft another run stuffer. These guys have been run over and around the last two playoff losses., It’s a shame babyNurts Steven goes on the cheap right up the middle of this defense. They are soft as a pin cushion at the point of attack. Who builds a team like that?
May have surprised some folks with his “solid” performance last year.
The super bowl definitely goes through Dallas now.
Build from the trenches out. Forget about skill position players for now. If we don’t strengthen the OL/DL nothing else will matter.
Exactly Gary b!!