What Comes Next? There are issues with Dallas’ interior defensive line.
What Comes Next? There Are Issues with Dallas’ Interior Defensive Line
The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic franchises in the NFL, have consistently fielded one of the league’s most talented and dynamic teams. With a storied history of success, the Cowboys have a unique combination of loyal fans, high expectations, and a leadership group determined to return the team to championship contention. Under the stewardship of owner Jerry Jones and head coach Mike McCarthy, the Cowboys have assembled a team that boasts multiple standout players on both offense and defense. However, despite their many strengths, there are glaring issues that need to be addressed — and one of the most pressing concerns heading into the future is the state of the Cowboys’ interior defensive line.
For years, the Cowboys’ defense has been a mix of strengths and weaknesses. In recent seasons, however, the team’s defensive line, particularly the interior, has been a point of emphasis for improvement. With some key departures and the evolving nature of the NFL, the Cowboys find themselves in need of reinforcing this critical position group. To compete at the highest level in the NFC, the Cowboys must be able to dominate in the trenches, control the line of scrimmage, and pressure opposing quarterbacks while stopping the run. The interior defensive line is integral to achieving these goals — and yet, there are questions about whether the Cowboys’ current group can get the job done.
This article will examine the state of the Cowboys’ interior defensive line, the challenges they face, the potential solutions available to them, and how the team can position itself for future success.
Current State of the Cowboys’ Interior Defensive Line
As of the 2024 season, the Cowboys’ interior defensive line features several familiar names. At the heart of the defense, Mazi Smith, the team’s 2023 first-round pick, was expected to make an immediate impact as a run-stuffer and disruptor in the middle of the line. Smith’s potential as a defensive force is significant, as his size, strength, and athleticism made him one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. However, his transition to the NFL hasn’t been without growing pains. While he has flashed some strong moments, his consistency and ability to command double-teams in the way that elite interior defenders do have yet to fully materialize. As a result, Smith’s performance and development will be one of the keys to whether the Cowboys can shore up the interior defensive line.
Additionally, Osa Odighizuwa, a more experienced interior lineman, has shown flashes of promise, especially as a pass rusher. Odighizuwa’s ability to generate pressure from the interior makes him a valuable asset on passing downs, but his impact on run defense and his ability to consistently play at a high level throughout the course of a game have been questioned. Though his versatility is an asset, the Cowboys still need more from him in terms of overall consistency and leadership on the interior defensive line.
The Cowboys’ defensive line also features Johnathan Hankins, a veteran defensive tackle known for his ability to clog up running lanes and provide a strong presence in the middle. Hankins, however, is no longer in the prime of his career, and while he remains a reliable contributor, his age and physical limitations can sometimes result in him being taken off the field in passing situations. As a run defender, Hankins can still be effective, but his long-term role as a major contributor to the Cowboys’ defense is increasingly uncertain.
The Cowboys also have depth pieces on the interior defensive line, including Quinton Bohanna and Chauncey Golston. Both players have experience in the NFL but have yet to establish themselves as reliable starters. While they add depth to the unit, neither player has shown the consistency to warrant being a focal point in the Cowboys’ defensive line rotation.
In sum, the Cowboys’ interior defensive line has several pieces in place, but it lacks the elite, game-changing talent that would allow it to consistently dominate both the run game and the pass rush. The team’s defensive line must improve in several key areas for Dallas to achieve its Super Bowl aspirations.
Key Issues with the Interior Defensive Line
Several issues currently plague the Cowboys’ interior defensive line. These problems range from consistency and depth concerns to a lack of elite talent at the position.
- Run Defense Struggles:
One of the most significant areas where the Cowboys’ interior defensive line has faltered is in run defense. Despite the presence of players like Mazi Smith and Johnathan Hankins, the Cowboys have often struggled to clog up running lanes and consistently stop opposing running backs. Teams that can effectively run the ball and control the clock have been able to exploit the Cowboys’ interior defensive line. Without a reliable group of interior defenders who can eat up space, shed blocks, and control the line of scrimmage, the Cowboys’ defense becomes more vulnerable to sustained ground attacks. - Lack of Elite Pass Rush from the Interior:
While Osa Odighizuwa has demonstrated an ability to rush the passer from the interior, he is the exception rather than the rule. In today’s NFL, interior pass rushers are critical in disrupting opposing quarterbacks and preventing quick throws. Players like Aaron Donald, Chris Jones, and Jeffery Simmons have redefined the importance of interior pass rushers, and the Cowboys’ interior defensive line has not yet reached that level of playmaking. For Dallas to consistently challenge for a Super Bowl, they need their interior defenders to generate pressure from the inside. This would not only improve the defense’s ability to disrupt the opposing offense but also free up edge rushers like Micah Parsons to generate even more havoc on the outside. - Depth and Injury Concerns:
As noted earlier, the Cowboys’ interior defensive line has depth pieces like Quinton Bohanna and Chauncey Golston, but neither player has been able to make a significant impact on a consistent basis. Depth is crucial in the NFL, especially in a league where injuries can derail even the best-laid plans. If the Cowboys’ starters are injured or underperform, they do not have a proven and reliable depth chart to fall back on. This lack of depth could be a major concern in the long run, especially as the season wears on. - Age and Longevity:
Johnathan Hankins is an example of a player whose age is beginning to show. While he still provides value as a run-stuffer, his ability to contribute on passing downs is limited. Additionally, Hankins is no longer a young player, and his career could be winding down. The Cowboys need to start thinking about the future of their interior defensive line, and while Hankins may be able to contribute for a few more seasons, the team must begin developing younger players who can take on more responsibility in the near future.
What Comes Next? Potential Solutions for the Cowboys
Given the current state of the Cowboys’ interior defensive line, there are several potential solutions that Jerry Jones, Mike McCarthy, and the team’s front office could explore to improve this position group. Addressing the interior defensive line is critical for Dallas if they want to remain competitive in the NFC and challenge for a Super Bowl.
- Development of Mazi Smith:
The development of Mazi Smith will be one of the most important factors in the Cowboys’ success over the next few seasons. The 2023 first-round pick has the potential to become a dominant force in the middle of the defensive line, but he needs to take the next step in his development. If Smith can become the player the Cowboys expected when they drafted him, he will provide a much-needed anchor for the defense and significantly improve the run defense. Smith’s ability to dominate against double teams, control the line of scrimmage, and provide interior pass rush would elevate the entire defensive line. - Targeting a Top Interior Defensive Lineman in the Draft or Free Agency:
If the Cowboys are serious about improving their interior defensive line, targeting a top-tier defensive tackle in the draft or free agency would be a strong move. There are several talented defensive linemen available, both in upcoming drafts and as potential free-agent signings. Adding an elite pass rusher or run defender to the mix would give the Cowboys the game-changing talent they need on the inside. Whether it’s via a trade, the draft, or free agency, the Cowboys should consider pursuing a player who can immediately step in and contribute at a high level. - Increased Contributions from Depth Players:
Players like Osa Odighizuwa, Quinton Bohanna, and Chauncey Golston need to step up and play a larger role in the interior defensive line rotation. These players have shown glimpses of potential but have not yet established themselves as consistent contributors. If they can elevate their games and provide more depth to the defensive line, the Cowboys’ interior will be better equipped to handle the rigors of a full season. - A Stronger Focus on Scheme and Coaching:
The Cowboys’ defensive coaching staff has the ability to maximize the potential of its players. If the current group of interior defensive linemen can be developed to play better against both the run and the pass, they could become a much more formidable force. The coaching staff’s ability to implement creative schemes and maximize the players’ strengths will be crucial in improving the interior defensive line. By utilizing stunts, blitzes, and other scheming tactics, the Cowboys could help mitigate some of the deficiencies in the interior defensive line while still creating pressure on the quarterback.
