The Dallas Cowboys are taking a youthful turn under the leadership of their new head coach, Brian Schottenheimer. As the team gears up for the upcoming season, several key players are set to reach milestone birthdays, offering a glimpse into the evolving composition of the squad. Linebacker Jack Sanborn and running back Javonte Williams are both approaching their 25th birthdays, signaling a shift towards younger talent. Meanwhile, the Cowboys have also seen some seasoned players depart, with executive vice president Stephen Jones describing the team's approach to free agency as "selectively aggressive."
In an effort to rejuvenate the roster, the Cowboys have bid farewell to several experienced players, including defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, who has inked a three-year deal with the Seattle Seahawks. Similarly, cornerback Jourdan Lewis has signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars on a three-year, $30 million contract and will celebrate his 30th birthday in August. The departures underscore the Cowboys' commitment to a strategic revamp aimed at blending youthful energy with seasoned expertise.
The longest-tenured Cowboy, quarterback Dak Prescott, was drafted in the fourth round back in 2016 and remains a pivotal figure on the team. Alongside him, special teams' ace C.J. Goodwin and safety Donovan Wilson stand as the second and third-longest tenured players, respectively, having joined the Cowboys as free agents in 2018 and as a sixth-round pick in 2019. Their continued presence offers stability amidst the ongoing transitions.
The Cowboys' roster now features players like guard Robert Jones and defensive end Payton Turner, both 26 years old, and the veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks, who is 31. However, linebacker Eric Kendricks at 33 represents one of the older elements of the team. The average age of the squad signals a new era under Schottenheimer's guidance.
Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, aged 55, brings fresh perspectives to the team, being 13 years younger than his predecessor Mike Zimmer. This change in leadership further emphasizes the Cowboys' strategic focus on nurturing younger talent.
Moreover, cornerback Kaiir Elam, acquired through a trade with the Buffalo Bills, will soon turn 24 in May, adding another youthful asset to the Cowboys' defensive line-up.
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