Dallas Cowboys Linebackers: 2023 Position Overview

Devin Harper

Devin Harper was chosen by the Dallas Cowboys with the No. 193 overall pick in the 6th round of the 2022 NFL Draft, after a trade with the Cleveland Browns. He was put on injured reserve on October 29, 2022.

Harper played a total of 59 games during his college career, with 16 of them being starts. His stats included 216 tackles, 26.5 for a loss, 13.5 sacks, two interceptions, four pass breakups, 22 quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles, two fumbles recovered, and one blocked punt..

Despite his impressive speed, sound tackling, and potential for depth, he’s in for a tough battle. It’s crucial for him to figure out how to become a core member on special teams. He did in at Oklahoma State.

"“I’m more athletic and faster than a lot of guys that play it. It just kinda comes natural to me and plus like it gives me the ability to make plays in space, open-field tackles.” – Devin Harper during his visit with the Cowboys last year."

Isaiah Land

Land tallied 20 tackles, 3 assists, and 34 stops in 2021. He recorded a total of 49 pressures as a pass rusher, including 26 QB hurries, 5 QB hits, and an impressive 18 sacks throughout the year.

During the 2022 season, Land played in 8 games and participated in 359 snaps as a junior. He made 15 tackles, provided 3 assists and had 18 stops recorded. He generated a total of 34 pressures as a pass rusher, which consisted of 25 QB hurries, 2 QB hits, and 7 sacks for the season.

Isaiah Land, is both long and lean, and he has outstanding athleticism. His exceptional first-step quickness as a rusher allows him to win edges with ease.

Upon winning the edge, Land’s impressive length and ability to pivot and flatten at the top of the arc allows him to reach the quarterback quickly. He possesses an outstanding motor and excellent foot speed that helps him chase the quarterback from the backside.

Although Land has many positive attributes, there are major concerns when considering his potential at the next level.

At only 236 pounds, Land is significantly undersized as an NFL edge rusher. Due to being undersized, he will probably transition to linebacker, where he can become a impact player.

With his length and experience at defensive end, he will project as a bendy linebacker who can shed blocks. Until he develops fully into a complete linebacker, he can serve as a pass rush specialist.

You can never have enough pass rushers.

In ending, I’m a fan of the Dallas Cowboys’ collection of young talent in this group, although some may require more time for development and the odds of them staying healthy are unknown. Playing is better than sitting for the young and fast.