Dallas Cowboys Camp: Depth Chart and Roster Spots
By Reid Hanson
Aug 1, 2015; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker Damien Wilson (45) at training camp at River Ridge Fields. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Linebacker (6)
Damien Wilson
The “forgotten man”, Sean Lee, returns to lead the defense in 2015. Instead of playing MIKE this season, Lee will be starting at WILL. The Dallas Cowboys want to be careful with their fragile star, so they are slowly incorporating Lee into the defense. This is great news for rookie Damien Wilson.
Wilson has been a standout in camp, and appears to be like this season’s version of Anthony Hitchens. Wilson even has a chance to earn a pass-coverage role in the nickel defense alongside Sean Lee. In Thursday’s game, Wilson stood out in a big way and looks to be an absolute steal for the Cowboys.
Starting MIKE, Rolando McClain, starts the season injured and suspended. In his absence has been Anthony Hitchens. As I’ve said all offseason, Hitch projects as a better MIKE and WILL than he does a SAM. Just because he’s the 3rd best LB doesn’t mean he’s going to lock down the final starting spot up for grabs (SAM).
Kyle Wilber is still the early favorite to claim the SAM role and is unlikely to be beaten out considering his size, durability, and pass-rush potential. He’s 1-dimensional and can’t contribute at WILL or MIKE but he plays special teams well, and is a high-effort vet.
Jasper Brinkley is a MIKE in name, but a run-stopper by trade. He will provide depth across the board and will see significant playing time in the rotation.
Next: Depth at Cornerback Looking Strong