In the past month, the Cowboys have participated in three days of rookie minicamp and nine OTAs. During this period, they’ve likely implemented most of their playbook and even enjoyed a paintball outing.
These practices have served not just as teaching sessions but also as evaluations. As evaluations occurred, the Cowboys’ depth chart has shifted; some players have stepped up to the first team, while others have moved either up from the third team to the second or down in the roster. Not all sessions have been open to the media, but enough information has emerged to give us a clearer picture of the potential depth chart.
While reviewing the depth charts below, remember that no practices have been conducted in full pads yet. Additionally, several players have missed OTAs due to injuries or the voluntary nature of the sessions.
Before examining the depth charts and discussing the starters and backups, let’s consider how Matt Eberflus, the new defensive coordinator, typically assembles his defenses based on numerical strength. Below is an overview of the opening-day defensive rosters from his previous roles with the Colts and as head coach of the Bears.
The data shows minimal annual variation, suggesting the Cowboys are likely to retain 9-10 defensive linemen, 5-6 linebackers, and 10-11 defensive backs, typically favoring corners over safeties, with an overall total of 25-26 defensive players.
Defensive Line
The Cowboys are known for their heavy rotation of defensive linemen during games, making the roles of starter and backup less distinct, especially on the edge. Currently, I have identified ten linemen (highlighted in green) making the roster.
Given that both Marshawn Kneeland (meniscus) and Sam Williams (ACL) are recovering from injuries, the Cowboys are likely to have a strong focus on edge rushers. At defensive tackle, it remains uncertain whether either of the two seventh-round picks, Jay Toia or Tommy Akingbesote, will secure a spot on the final 53-man roster or if a veteran nose tackle will be acquired during camp.
Linebacker
A pivotal aspect of the linebacker depth chart is DeMarvion Overshown, who will start the season on the PUP list. He may return around Thanksgiving, though this is not guaranteed, and thus he’s noted in red but won’t count against the 53-man roster initially.
Considering the Cowboys’ plan to use two safeties as slot corners, the safety depth will likely be thin, with only four safeties projected for the 53-man roster. As Mukuamu and Thomas explore roles as slot corners, this may free up a roster spot for UDFA Alijah Clark, who has been making impressions during OTAs.
The Cowboys have a mandatory minicamp scheduled for this week, which may shed light on the defensive depth chart. Currently, the projected roster consists of 25 defensive players: 10 defensive linemen, 5 linebackers, and 10 defensive backs.
We welcome your thoughts on this preliminary depth chart in the comments section below.
