Cowboys Sign Big-Name Playmaker to Boost Defense in New Prediction

The Dallas Cowboys’ defense has struggled to live up to the standards set for themselves last season under then-defensive coordinator Dan Quinn. 

Last season, Dallas had one of the best pass defenses (187.4 yards per game allowed) and scoring defenses (18.5 ppg allowed). There was some expectation that things could take a step back this season under Mike Zimmer, who took over for Quinn this season.

However, no one saw this defense losing multiple players to injury and not stopping the run (147.6 yards per game allowed – second-most in the NFL). Injuries have played a huge role in Dallas’ struggles, but they also lack playmakers in the front seven.

Therefore, the Cowboys should target a few quality veterans to start on the defensive line and at linebacker. Bleacher Report believes Dallas should go after veteran linebacker Dre Greenlaw in the offseason, especially with Eric Hendricks set to become a free agent.

"“Eric Kendricks will be a 33-year-old free agent in the offseason and was brought in because of his relationship with Mike Zimmer. However, Dallas' defense entered this weekend 31st in the NFL for points allowed and there is speculation that the entire coaching staff could get fired at the end of the campaign.""

In other words, the front office might be looking for a veteran linebacker this spring. Greenlaw is coming off a torn Achilles but returned to practice this week. At his best, the six-year veteran is a top-tier linebacker who is well-rounded—excelling in coverage and against the run.”

The 27-year-old linebacker has something to prove after missing most of this season because of a lower-leg injury. When healthy, Greenlaw is one of the better linebackers in the league and would be a good addition alongside DeMarvion Overshown.

Last season with the 49ers, Greenlaw had 120 combined tackles, five tackles for loss, four pass deflections, and 1.5 sacks. The veteran linebacker also produced a 70.7 completion percentage allowed on targets, a 100.5 pass rating allowed when targeted, and gave up a career-high four receiving touchdowns.

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