The Dallas Cowboys' defense yet again let the franchise down on Sunday, giving up 34 points to the Minnesota Vikings. Even when the Dallas offense mounted a comeback attempt, the defense was incapable of getting a stop, allowing the Vikings to do whatever they wanted. This left a long list of frustrations, including an injury to a star defender and a group of linebackers who proved themselves incapable of doing the job. Near the top of the list of frustrations is Kenneth Murray Jr.
Dallas added the defender ahead of the 2025 season in a trade that netted the Cowboys the linebacker in exchange for a draft pick swap. One that Dallas would likely reverse if they had it do over again, based simply on the underwhelming performance of Murray. This was the case yet again on Sunday, with The Dallas Morning News' Calvin Watkins noting, "Matt Eberflus has said LBs need to lead the team in tackles. Sunday night, DeMarvion Overshown did that with four solos. Though Eberflus would like to see that number increase. Meanwhile, Logan Wilson and Kenneth Murray had half a tackle each."
This is as damaging a stat as you can offer in a game where the Cowboys' defense seemingly never left the field. It was furthered by another pundit who pointed out Murray's tendency to be fooled and run away from the football. It is a problem that has been consistent throughout the roster but is especially glaring with Murray.
Cowboys Should Regret Trading for Struggling LB Kenneth Murray Jr.
It is easy to argue that a large part of the blame for the defensive failures is on the shoulders of defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. So often this season, the coach has been allergic to making obvious changes or even being open to switching things up that weren't working. Now, it is too late for the Cowboys to undo the damage the defense has done, as the team is now one Eagles win away from elimination.
For Murray, the linebacker has done his best to contribute to his playing at a level that doesn't meet any reasonable standards. It would be surprising if the franchise doesn't make multiple moves at the position. Moving away from Murray shouldn't be difficult, as the defender is scheduled to hit free agency at the end of the season.
There should be zero chance of re-signing Murray based on the level of play throughout the most important games of the Cowboys' season. Murray flat-out doesn't have instincts at the position, is unable to find the football, and misses plays that other, more affordable pieces would make.
With this in mind, the next three games are vital for Murray if the linebacker is going to generate any level of future interest. If there isn't any improvement, it won't just be the Cowboys shying away from a piece that simply isn't meeting expectations.