While the Dallas Cowboys' defense didn't have too many reasons to brag about last season, rookie pass rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku showed signs of promise. He wasn't the same dominant specimen at Boston College, but the occasional flashes were certainly encouraging.
Even so, that's not likely to stop the Cowboys from taking a pass rusher at some point in the NFL Draft, especially if they manage to trade up and into the top 10. Rueben Bain Jr. and David Bailey could be their new defensive anchors, and even though that makes sense to a degree, they may already have a star in the building.
The Cowboys Need to Unleash Donovan Ezeiruaku
Ezeiruaku is expected to be fully healthy for training camp after undergoing shoulder surgery in January. A full offseason to get his legs under him, bulk up, and watch tape should work wonders for one of the most promising pass rushers of the stacked class of 2025.
In 17 appearances last season (nine starts), the former second-rounder registered 40 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, 12 QB hits, and 2.0 sacks. His technique still needs some tuning up, but he's just 22 years old and, albeit a bit undersized at 6-foot-2 and 242 pounds, he's incredibly strong.
Ezeiruaku posted a whopping 16.5 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss in his final season in college. Expecting that type of production against professionals might not be realistic, but he's got the physical tools and raw power to become a prime headhunter if made a full-time starter.
The Cowboys are still figuring out how to replace Micah Parsons, and their failed attempt to acquire Maxx Crosby shows they're still far from satisfied with their pass-rushing unit. That makes perfect sense, but their improvement shouldn't come at the expense of their former second-round pick. If anything, whoever they get should play by his side, not instead of him.
Despite playing just 603 snaps and taking the field for one of the worst defenses in the NFL, Ezeiruaku still drew a Pro Football Focus grade of 73.1, which ranked 38th among 115 eligible defensive ends. He registered 36 total pressures in 343 pass-rushing snaps, even though the rest of the defensive line constantly failed to bring the heat at the line of scrimmage.
New defensive coordinator Christian Parker will have his work cut out for him in his first year in Arlington. At least, he can count on an uber-athletic and highly productive pass rusher ready to break out in year two.
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