The Cowboys were among the quietest teams in free agency this offseason, but the team did add Eric Kendricks as a veteran linebacking presence. The former All-Pro is on track for a starting role, but he could be joined in that respect by a player yet to see regular-season action in the NFL.
DeMarvion Overshown is expected to handle first-team duties if he can remain healthy this season, Jon Machota of The Athletic notes (subscription required). The 2023 third-rounder was sidelined for his rookie season due to an ACL tear. He did not participate in offseason workouts this spring while continuing to rehab, but returning to full health in time for Week 1 could lead to a notable role.
Overshown entered the NFL with high expectations, given his college production. The Texas alum posted 96 stops, 10 tackles for loss and four sacks in his final collegiate season, showcasing his value against the run and the pass. Remaining on the field for third downs, in particular, would constitute a sign of confidence in Overshown on the team’s part if such a workload emerged come the fall.
Of course, using the 23-year-old as a full-time defender would limit Damone Clark‘s usage. The latter logged a heavy workload as a rookie in 2022 before becoming a central Cowboys defense member last season. Clark handled a 73% defensive snap share, racking up 109 tackles. Dallas’ run defense was a sore spot in 2023, however, so it comes as little surprise there will be new faces competing for roster spots and playing time during training camp and the preseason.
Kendricks — who backed out of a 49ers deal before signing with Dallas — is a familiar face for new Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. The pair spent considerable time together in Minnesota, and Kendricks noted Zimmer’s presence as a factor in deciding to join the Cowboys this offseason. The 32-year-old has 127 starts to his name and will look to stabilize the second level of Dallas’ defense this season.
In addition to Overshown and Clark likely battling for a starting role this summer, the Cowboys have third-round rookie Marist Liufau and UFL addition Willie Harvey Jr. amongst their depth options at the linebacker spot. The latter two will likely handle heavy special teams workloads if they survive roster cuts, but Overshown’s role will be worth watching closely once the campaign begins.
