The Dallas Cowboys had one of the best offenses in the league last season. The only problem is that their defense was absolutely atrocious, and that ultimately cost them a trip to the playoffs -- a familiar issue for this team.
Christian Parker has now taken the reins of the defense, followed by a plethora of young blood. However, the Cowboys' defensive overhaul started last season with two veteran arrivals: Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark. Now, they doubled down on that unit by taking Rashan Gary as well.
The three might not have been with the team for long, but they're already making an impact. As reported by Cowboys reporter Nicole Hutchinson, the Cowboys' new defensive coordinator is proud of how the veterans are setting the tone.
Cowboys' veteran defensive linemen are setting the tone for the entire group
"It starts up front. Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark, Rashan Gary, those guys have taken a significant step forward in the era of the pro habits. How we practice, their habits in the meeting rooms, pre-practice, post-practice," Parker said.
The Cowboys took a page out of the Green Bay Packers' book by making a run at two of their veteran linemen, though having Williams from the start of the season will obviously be the biggest defensive reinforcement for this team.
The former New York Jets draft pick has never played a playoff game, and he knows this is his first opportunity to play meaningful football. Likewise, Gary and Clark might not have much love lost for the Packers after they gave up on both of them, so motivation should be at an all-time high.
The Cowboys also added a potential superstar in Caleb Downs, and expectations are through the roof. Of course, putting that much weight on a rookie's shoulders isn't fair or right, but he's got the makings of a generational defensive back.
Still, we've seen how talent alone can only take players so far. It's all about execution and discipline, and that's where the veterans come in handy. As exciting and promising as the youngsters might be, those who have been there and done that must lead by example and show what a pro's work ethic looks like.
It's been a while since the Cowboys had a strong defense, and the lack of continuity in that unit has only made things worse. The revolving door at defensive coordinator has been a thorn in this team's side for years now.
Parker was a rising star in Philadelphia, even being tabbed as Vic Fangio's potential successor. There are plenty of reasons to feel excited about his arrival in the Lone Star state, and knowing that the veterans are fully committed and bought only shows the fans are right to be hopeful.
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