The Cowboys are considering the addition of a trio of Pro Bowl defensive ends in a potential free agency move, which could prove to be a significant boost, earning the label of “Nightmare Fuel”.
As the free agency period approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are already being associated with a standout edge rusher from the Cleveland Browns. Despite possessing formidable pass rushers in Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, the Cowboys recognize the importance of bolstering their defensive line.
Patrik Walker, a writer for DallasCowboys.com, suggests that Za’Darius Smith could be a viable option for the team, particularly considering the impending free agency status of Cowboys defensive ends Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr.
“I was fully supportive of the idea of the Cowboys acquiring Smith in 2022, but it was the Browns who ultimately made that move (although Smith did express interest in Dallas, hint hint),” wrote Smith on February 21. “At 31 years old, he continues to excel, and envisioning him alongside Parsons and Lawrence, under the guidance of Mike Zimmer — his former rival from the NFC North — poses a daunting challenge for opposing quarterbacks (although acquiring him won’t come without a significant cost).”
In terms of committing fully to bolstering their defensive front, this move appears to be a logical choice. While both Za’Darius Smith and DeMarcus Lawrence may have surpassed their prime years, they remain highly impactful players. By pairing them together, the Cowboys can ensure that both players remain fresh and effective on every snap. Additionally, with Micah Parsons anchoring the weak side, the Cowboys’ defense can maintain its potency with minimal rotation.
Entering his tenth year in the league after a stint with the Cleveland Browns, Za’Darius Smith’s journey to the NFL wasn’t conventional. Despite not garnering widespread recognition initially, Smith’s path to the pros included a stint in junior college before ultimately completing his collegiate career at Kentucky. Although his statistical output didn’t necessarily stand out, standing at 6’4″ and weighing 275 pounds, Smith possessed physical attributes that caught the attention of NFL scouts.
Drafted in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens, Smith wasted no time in making an impact. Despite not earning a single start in his rookie season, he still managed to tally 5.5 sacks, showcasing his knack for disrupting opposing offenses right from the start of his professional career.