There are a lot of Dallas Cowboys defenders with lofty expectations in 2026. But one stands out more than most. Cowboys linebacker DeMarvion Overshown is heading into year four with all eyes on Agent 0.
In his rookie season, Overshown impressed during training camp and the early stages of preseason before tearing his ACL in preseason action. In year two, he impressed alongside Eric Kendricks before again tearing his ACL in week 14. In 2025, Overshown saw action in just six games after returning from
his 2024 ACL tear. It was an up-and-down year for Overshown, but no year is more important than 2026.
Unlike in previous seasons, Overshown does not yet have a running mate heading into the season. In 2024, Overshown had Eric Kendricks to work alongside. In 2025, despite his struggles, Kenneth Murray was able to take a little bit of the pressure off of Overshown. Heading into 2026, it’s currently DeMarvion Overshown and a bunch of maybes.
Of course that could change if the Cowboys draft a linebacker prospect high in the draft. Or they could still go out and sign a free agent or trade for a veteran linebacker. This would be a tremendous help for not just Overshown, but the entire defense.
When healthy and on the field, Overshown has been a good player for the Cowboys defense. In 2024, he showed high-level play and looked to be a budding star. The ACL tear towards the end of the 2024 season was a major setback for both the player and the team. Expectations were low in 2025 coming off of back-to-back seasons with ACL tears, and the struggles to regain full strength were evident.
While Dallas desperately needs Donovan Ezeiruaku, Shavon Revel, and Shemar James to make major jumps, the biggest jump needs to come from Overshown. That includes staying healthy which has been the biggest obstacle in his career. If he can return to his pre-injury 2024 season form, Overshown could be a major difference-maker for new defensive coordinator Christian Parker.
His physical gifts and his ability to close down a runner was at a peak before his second ACL tear. He was a budding star, but now he has to show he can get back to that level while staying healthy.
Overshown is currently eligible for a contract extension, but due to his inability to stay on the field, the Cowboys would be wise to hold off on giving the former Texas Longhorn an extension. If he’s able to stay healthy and get back to his 2024 form, Overshown could be in for a nice payday by the Cowboys during the season or at the end of the 2026 season.
Barring a major trade or one of the top two linebackers (Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese) landing in Dallas on draft day, Overshown is set to be the team’s top linebacker for this season, giving him every opportunity to cash-out at some point in the next 12 months.
It’s a huge season for the linebacker. How do you think it will go for him?
