Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones sounded a hopeful note about his team’s future defensive prowess at a press conference earlier this month. And as the Cowboys prepare to face the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium this Sunday, Jones points to the unique depth they boast among their pass rushers. In his prophetic assertion, they surely sport the most talented lateral in the position’s history.
Even with the positive comments, the Cowboys have major issues on the defensive side. Well, that’s all changed, as they now sit dead last in the league, giving up an average of 411.7 yards per game. Plus, they’re second-to-last in points allowed at 30.7 per game. The team, currently with a pitiful 11 sacks on the year, looks lost on the defensive end of the ball.
Jones addressed financial considerations when discussing potential trades, particularly regarding linebacker Micah Parsons, who is set to count $21 million against the salary cap. He cited Kenny Clark, a franchise player who’s counting about $2 million against his team’s cap, as a comparison point.
“We will weigh what are the likelihood of the players we’ve got coming back, how will they impact where that will put this team as opposed to should we add a player in a trade?” – Jerry Jones
Jones reassured fans that he remains focused on the team’s potential, stating, “The last thing that I’m thinking about is in any way being out of the hunt.” He did admit he was open to making a trade on the defensive side of things if it would improve their performance.
“Well, if there is a trade that would help the defense, we’re in position to make that trade,” – Jerry Jones
Todd Archer, an ESPN NFL reporter and native Texan, has covered the Dallas Cowboys since 2003. He admitted that all the obstacles this season has brought have put the team in a different position. Archer indicated that while Jones has not specified a trade target, there is a sense of urgency as the team evaluates its current roster and potential improvements.
Jones raised hopes for Cowboys’ quarterback Dak Prescott, who has had a stellar year thus far. He thinks Prescott’s talent is enough to lift the team through their lingering defensive issues.
Jones did drop a clue, suggesting linebacker DeMarvion Overshown could return. He is in the process of healing from a knee injury which he suffered earlier this season. He will be eligible to rejoin the team after their next bye week on November 9.
The Cowboys are riding high as they prepare to face the 3-3 Commanders. First, they face an uphill battle to improve their defense at the same time they try to remain a contender in their division.
“It just reminded me that we are still in it,” – Jerry Jones
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