The Dallas Cowboys have always been known for their powerhouse offense, but their defense has been a point of concern in recent years. However, there may be a new ray of hope on the horizon for the Cowboys as they have been linked to a potential sleeper option in NFL free agency who could help rebuild their defense.
With the NFL free agency period in full swing, teams are on the lookout for players who can bring a much-needed boost to their rosters. The Cowboys, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing season last year, have their sights set on a player who could be the missing piece to their defensive puzzle.
The player in question is none other than defensive end Olivier Vernon. The 29-year-old has had a stellar career so far, spending time with the Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, and most recently, the Cleveland Browns. However, his time with the Browns was cut short due to injuries, making him a hidden gem in this year’s free agency pool.
Coming off a season where the Cowboys’ pass rush struggled, Vernon could be the perfect fit for the team. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 262 pounds, he possesses the size and strength to be a significant force on the defensive line. His speed and agility also make him a versatile player who can play on both the edge and in the interior, providing the Cowboys with much-needed flexibility.
But it’s not just his physical attributes that make Vernon an attractive option for the Cowboys. His experience and skill set are equally impressive. In his nine-year career, he has tallied 348 tackles, 32.5 sacks, and 74 quarterback hits. He also has the ability to stop the run, making him a well-rounded player on the defensive side of the ball.
Moreover, Vernon has been a consistent performer throughout his career. In his last three seasons with the Giants, he recorded at least six sacks per year. In 2018, he amassed seven sacks and 21 quarterback hits, proving that he can still perform at a high level despite his brief stint with the Browns.
Adding a player like Vernon to the Cowboys’ roster would not only bolster their defense but also bring a much-needed veteran presence to the team. With several young players on the defensive line, Vernon’s experience and leadership would be invaluable. He could also be a mentor to rising star Demarcus Lawrence, who is coming off a career-low five sacks in 2020.
It’s no secret that the Cowboys have struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks in recent years, and this has been a significant factor in their underperforming defense. With Vernon in the mix, they could potentially have one of the most formidable defensive lines in the league. Combining his skills with those of Lawrence and Randy Gregory, the Cowboys’ pass rush could become a force to be reckoned with.
Signing Vernon would also be a cost-effective move for the Cowboys. With limited cap space, the team needs to be smart with their spending, and Vernon could be the perfect fit. It’s no secret that the free-agent market for pass rushers is quite expensive, with big names like J.J. Watt and Yannick Ngakoue commanding high salaries. In comparison, Vernon could come at a more reasonable price, allowing the Cowboys to allocate their resources to other areas of their defense.
Of course, there is always the concern of Vernon’s injury history. He has dealt with numerous injuries throughout his career, and these can be a cause for alarm. However, if he can stay healthy, the Cowboys could have a top-tier pass rusher on their hands.
In conclusion, the Dallas Cowboys are on the lookout for a game-changing player to help rebuild their defense, and Olivier Vernon could be the answer. With his size, speed, and experience, he has all the makings of a star defensive end. Adding him to the roster would not only strengthen their defense but also bring a boost of confidence to the team. Here’s hoping that the rumors are true, and we see Vernon donning the iconic blue and silver in the upcoming season. The Cowboys could definitely use his services as they aim to get back on top of the NFL.
