If we were to evaluate the Dallas Cowboys defense so far in training camp, you’d get the impression that the team is looking pretty good. That’s not too surprising. With Christian Parker installing his new defense and the Cowboys having some talent around the unit, hopes are high. But one problem position that many still talk about is the linebacker corps.
What has been eyebrow-raising is how much the front office has discussed player acquisition through external outlets, especially coming from Stephen
Jones. When he mentions the Cowboys aren’t done adding outside help, you tend to lean forward in your seat. Now, where exactly do the Cowboys need more support? This week, we’ve heard rumors about Maxx Crosby once more but also about Miami Dolphins’ linebacker Jordyn Brooks.
Bryan Broaddus sparked some discussion about Dallas adding the veteran defender.
“I think they’re looking bigger than Bobby Wagner. That’s what I would tell you guys,” Broaddus said while speaking on 105.3 The Fan.
Broaddus had a target in mind as well, saying that the Cowboys could be going after a “bigger fish.” He used the word fish intentionally, saying he believes the Miami Dolphins are still willing to trade linebacker Jordyn Brooks, and that Dallas would be interested in bringing him in.
“I think they’re going for a bigger fish. Big fish. Yeah, and please take the word fish in mind here when I say this. But, yeah, I think they’ve got a linebacker in mind,” Broaddus said.
First of all, Miami has made it clear that Brooks isn’t going anywhere and is a big part of their plans this season. Secondly, do the Cowboys need more at interior linebacker? From what we’ve seen thus far from a promising insider linebacker, the Cowboys might be good in that department, and it may be better to get this player on the field sooner rather than later.
Jaishawn Barham, the other Cowboys rookie we should be talking about
We get it. Cowboys Nation should be thrilled to have Caleb Downs, as he was arguably the best defender in the draft. In fact, Downs is so special a prospect that he overshadows the entire rookie draft class that includes fellow first-round pick Malachi Lawrence. Yet, Jaishawn Barham has commanded our attention over the first few days at training camp. He has fans excited about his versatility.
Barham has caught the attention of the coaching staff, with head coach Brian Schottenheimer already singing his praises within the first week of camp. What we already know about Barham is he has ideal size and strength to play inside linebacker for the Cowboys. Yet, what we’re seeing is he has the smarts and awareness. On this one play, he did an excellent job finding his way to the backfield on what would’ve been a tackle for loss.
He then followed that up later, with great instincts on this play here for a pass breakup.
Whether it’s stopping the run or defending the pass, Barham has earned an opportunity to see the field more. Clearly the coaching staff agrees, as he took on work with the starting defense. While you can never have enough help on a roster with high ambitions, Barham has only piqued curiosity of what more he can do and how much more he can grow before the season opener.
Could one of the biggest enigmatic positions on the roster possibly become a strength? Think about it: Jaisahwn Barham, DeMarvion Overshown, and Dee Winters could be a strong trio if everything goes right – Overshown stays healthy, Winters repeats his breakout from last year, and Barham continues on his current trajectory.
Dallas might have created a very competitive inside linebacker group where everyone is on near equal footing, with the linebacker with the least experience flashing almost daily. With days like Barham has had early in camp, it could make the Joneses decide to acquire talent at another postion.
