The Dallas Cowboys’ defense has had their ups and downs over the past decade or so, with players like DeMarcus Lawrence anchoring the defensive line and leading the charge.
However, with Lawrence’s departure from the team, the Cowboys are entering a new era of defensive leadership.
This shift has opened the door for younger stars to step up and become the driving forces behind the team’s defensive resurgence.
After a year when the defense did not perform up to the standard they held under DC Dan Quinn, Matt Eberflus has entered to bring the defense back to a strength of the team.
These new leaders will be the heartbeat of the new era, hopefully leading the Cowboys to Super Bowl glory once again.
“Tank” You For Everything
DeMarcus Lawrence, who was drafted by the Cowboys in 2014, became the face of the defense during his time in Dallas.
Known for his relentless pass-rushing ability and his leadership in the locker room, Lawrence was a key component of the Cowboys’ defense for nearly a decade.
He was the go-to player for generating pressure on quarterbacks and consistently led by example, establishing a strong work ethic and a tough mentality.
Lawrence’s presence was often felt both on and off the field, making him a cornerstone of the defense.
However, with Lawrence’s departure, it was clear that a change was imminent, and new leaders would need to emerge.
The Lion’s Den
For the Cowboys, Micah Parsons has already become a defensive powerhouse. Drafted in 2021, Parsons quickly made an impact in his rookie season, earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
His blend of speed, strength, and versatility has made him one of the most feared players in the NFL.
Parsons has the ability to rush the passer, stop the run, and drop into coverage—all with the explosive playmaking ability of a star linebacker.
With DeMarcus Lawrence no longer in the picture, Parsons has naturally stepped into the leadership role, famously tweeting “It’s my time” shortly after Lawrence’s contract with the Seattle Seahawks was announced.
Parsons’ approach to leadership might rub some people the wrong way, but he is a competitor who takes the game on the field seriously.
His drive to be the best is infectious, and Parsons’ determination to lead the Cowboys’ defense into a new era has already been felt.
Welcome to the Show
While Micah Parsons has already established himself as one of the league’s best, another young player is emerging as a potential future leader for the Cowboys’ defense: DeMarvion Overshown.
The Cowboys selected Overshown in the 2023 NFL Draft, and while he may not have the same recognition as Parsons, his potential to contribute is undeniable.
Overshown brings a unique skill set to the linebacker position, combining sideline-to-sideline speed with strong instincts and versatility.
Overshown’s leadership potential lies in his ability to quickly adjust to different defensive schemes and his strong football IQ.
Like Parsons, he possesses the physical traits that make him a dynamic player.
If he can continue to develop under the guidance of veterans like Parsons, he has the potential to become a key leader on the Cowboys’ defense in the near future.
Overshown’s emergence allows the Cowboys to have a younger, more dynamic linebacker corps that is set up for long-term success.
Digging In
No discussion of the Cowboys’ defensive future would be complete without mentioning Trevon Diggs.
Since entering the league in 2020, Diggs has made a name for himself as one of the most ball-hawking cornerbacks in the NFL.
His ability to make interceptions has been a defining feature of his career, and his aggressive play style makes him a threat every time the ball is in the air.
Diggs’ leadership on the defense comes from his confidence and ability to lock down wide receivers in critical situations.
In a defensive backfield that included players like Jourdan Lewis and DaRon Bland, Diggs established himself as the alpha.
His unique combination of skills and confidence in his ability to shut down the opposition gives the Cowboys a strong leader in the secondary.
The development of Diggs as a vocal leader could complement Parsons’ energy and Overshown’s raw potential to form a defense that is feared across the league.