Cowboys 53-Man Roster Prediction Ahead of 2024 Training Camp
By Randy Gurzi
Linebacker (4): Eric Kendricks, Damone Clark, DeMarvion Overshown, Marist Liufau
Eric Kendricks was originally on his way to the San Francisco 49ers until Mike Zimmer came in and called an audible. The new (old) Dallas defensive coordinator has a previous relationship with Kendricks dating back to their days with the Minnesota Vikings.
Adding Kendricks is huge for two reasons. One, it shores up a major weakness from 2023. After losing Leighton Vander Esch to a neck injury, the Cowboys linebacking corps became a problem. The second reason is his familiarity with Zimmer. Having someone who can be a quarterback for the defense will help everyone get on the same page.
That should be a huge help for Damone Clark who needs to get back to playing without overthinking. He has the talent, and a savvy veteran alongside should push him in the right direction. The other two linebackers are DeMarvion Overshown and rookie Marist Liufau. Overshown was great in the preseason before suffering an injury and Liufau has been a standout so far in offseason workouts.
Cornerback (6): Trevon Diggs, DaRon Bland, Jourdan Lewis, Caelan Carson, Eric Scott, Jr., C.J. Goodwin
There are six cornerbacks here but it's really just five. C.J. Goodwin makes the cut but could just as easily be placed in the 'specialists' category since that's where he shines. Still, he's listed as a corner and can play there if needed.
As for the others, Trevon Diggs is coming back from a torn ACL and DaRon Bland is fresh off a record-setting season. Jourdan Lewis returns on a one-year deal after nearly signing with Washington, giving them an underrated slot corner. Rookie Caelen Carson is an intriguing player too, and could be a day-three steal.
The last spot goes to Eric Scott, Jr. who beats out Gareon Conley and Nahshon Wright simply due to being a draft pick in 2023. That could change at any moment if Conley or Wright impress.