What will Carl Lawson do after his comeback season with the Dallas Cowboys?
Carl Lawson: What’s Next After His Comeback Season with the Dallas Cowboys?
Carl Lawson’s name has echoed throughout the NFL for years as a formidable pass rusher, but his journey has been anything but straightforward. After a series of setbacks that included an injury-riddled period, Lawson made a triumphant return to the NFL during what can only be described as a comeback season with the Dallas Cowboys. His return to form is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and sheer determination to return to the level of play that made him one of the league’s most feared defensive linemen. But with his comeback season now behind him, one major question remains: What will Carl Lawson do next?
To answer that question, we must first examine the context of Lawson’s comeback season with the Dallas Cowboys. What exactly did he achieve during his return to the NFL, and what does the future hold for him? From potential new contracts to team dynamics, Lawson’s next move is crucial to understanding how his story in the NFL could unfold.
Carl Lawson’s Journey to the Dallas Cowboys
Before diving into the future, it’s important to recap Lawson’s journey that led him to the Cowboys. A highly touted prospect out of Auburn, Lawson entered the NFL in 2017 as the fourth-round pick of the Cincinnati Bengals. His college career at Auburn showcased his explosive pass-rushing ability, and he quickly became one of the most promising young edge rushers in the NFL.
For the Bengals, Lawson’s impact was immediate. In his first season, he posted a solid 8.5 sacks, showcasing his ability to disrupt quarterbacks and wreak havoc on opposing offenses. His strength, quickness, and relentless motor made him an ideal weapon on the edge, and it was clear from the beginning that Lawson was a player who could change the course of a game.
However, in 2018, Lawson faced a major setback when he tore his ACL during training camp, forcing him to miss the entire season. The injury raised questions about his future, and it took time for Lawson to fully recover and return to the level of play he had displayed prior to the injury.
Lawson eventually returned to form in 2019 and 2020, showing flashes of his old self, but he struggled with consistency and failed to make the impact many had expected. After another disappointing season in 2021 with the Bengals, Lawson found himself a free agent.
The Comeback with the Dallas Cowboys
In 2022, Lawson’s career took a pivotal turn when he was signed by the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys, who have long struggled to find consistent pass-rush production, saw Lawson as an ideal candidate to help their defensive line. With the team’s defense entering a new era under defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, Lawson’s skill set made him an attractive fit.
The decision to sign Lawson was rooted in the team’s belief that Lawson could return to his explosive form, and he quickly became one of the Cowboys’ most important defensive assets. His physicality, speed off the edge, and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks fit perfectly into the Cowboys’ defensive scheme, which emphasizes pressure and versatility.
During the 2022 season, Lawson showcased his potential with the Cowboys, recording 8 sacks, 15 QB hits, and 3 forced fumbles. He displayed a level of explosiveness that had been missing in recent years, consistently finding ways to disrupt the opposing offense. His performances were a key reason why the Cowboys’ defense was ranked among the top 10 in the league for total sacks, pressures, and takeaways.
Beyond just the stats, Lawson’s presence on the field provided an emotional and physical boost to the defense. His leadership and ability to rally the team helped shape the Cowboys into one of the most feared defensive units in the NFL, particularly in clutch situations when pass rush pressure was crucial.
Lawson’s comeback season with the Cowboys was a triumph not just for the player but also for the organization, which gained a valuable asset in their quest for a Super Bowl. But what does the future hold for Lawson after a successful season in Dallas?
The Decision: Does Lawson Stay or Go?
One of the biggest questions surrounding Lawson’s future is whether he will remain with the Cowboys or test free agency once again. The Cowboys are in an interesting position, as they already have a strong defensive line that includes notable players like Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Neville Gallimore. While Lawson has proven to be a valuable addition to the defense, the Cowboys are also a team that likes to make calculated moves when it comes to managing their salary cap and personnel.
Lawson’s successful season with the Cowboys could certainly attract interest from other teams, particularly those in need of a veteran pass rusher. After all, Lawson’s production in 2022 demonstrated that he can still be a force on the field, and his experience would be valuable to teams looking to bolster their defensive line for a Super Bowl run. The market for Lawson could be competitive, as teams like the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, and Kansas City Chiefs are all looking to add pass-rushing talent to their defensive units.
From Lawson’s perspective, there are several factors that will likely influence his decision:
- Financial Considerations: A player’s financial future is always a major factor in any contract negotiation. After a successful comeback season, Lawson could be in line for a lucrative deal, especially if multiple teams are bidding for his services. Whether it’s with the Cowboys or another team, Lawson could potentially earn a multi-year contract worth a substantial amount, especially if he has proven that he can return to his pre-injury form.
- Team Success and Championship Contention: At this stage in Lawson’s career, winning a Super Bowl is likely at the top of his list of priorities. While he may be attracted to a large contract offer, Lawson could be drawn to a team that is primed to compete for a championship in the short term. The Cowboys, with their strong defensive unit and playoff-caliber roster, would certainly be an appealing option for a player looking to win a ring. However, teams like the Buffalo Bills or San Francisco 49ers, both of which have strong Super Bowl aspirations, could also be viable landing spots.
- Familiarity and Comfort with the Cowboys: Lawson has developed a rapport with the Cowboys’ coaching staff, particularly Dan Quinn, who is widely regarded as one of the best defensive minds in the NFL. Having the trust and support of the coaching staff can be a big motivator for a player who has gone through a difficult few seasons. The Cowboys’ defense, which utilizes Lawson’s strengths, could provide a sense of stability and continuity, making it a favorable place to stay.
- Personal Goals and Legacy: As a player who has faced adversity, Lawson may be highly motivated to prove that he can still perform at the highest level. Whether that means staying with the Cowboys or joining another contender, Lawson may want to establish his legacy as one of the best pass rushers of his generation. Achieving this goal could be a driving force behind his next decision.
The Cowboys’ Perspective: Should They Keep Lawson?
From the Cowboys’ perspective, the decision to re-sign Lawson or move on is not one to be taken lightly. While Lawson’s impact on the field was undeniable in 2022, the team has several other defensive needs that may require attention, including improving the depth at cornerback and linebacker. Additionally, with Micah Parsons emerging as one of the best defensive players in the NFL, the Cowboys may decide to focus more of their resources on building around him for the long term.
However, re-signing Lawson would provide the Cowboys with another year of elite pass-rush production. His ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks, coupled with Parsons’ game-changing ability, would create one of the most dynamic pass-rushing duos in the league. Moreover, Lawson’s veteran presence would add invaluable leadership to a young defensive core that includes up-and-coming players like Quinton Bohanna and Jabril Cox.
In short, Lawson’s return to Dallas could solidify their defense even further. If the Cowboys can strike a fair deal that balances their financial constraints with their need for additional pass-rush depth, keeping Lawson in Dallas could be a win-win for both sides.
Looking to the Future: What’s Next for Carl Lawson?
Whether Lawson stays with the Cowboys or explores other options, the future remains bright for the former Auburn star. After overcoming significant injury challenges, Lawson has proven that he still has the ability to impact games at a high level. His comeback season is a testament to his work ethic, resilience, and passion for the game.
As he looks to the next chapter in his career, Lawson has several opportunities ahead of him. Whether it’s continuing to contribute to the Cowboys’ defense or joining a new team with championship aspirations, Lawson’s next move will be crucial in shaping the final stages of his NFL journey.
What’s certain is that Carl Lawson has shown that he is far from finished in the NFL. With a strong comeback season under his belt, his next decision will play a pivotal role in determining how he’s remembered in the years to come. One thing is for sure—Lawson’s story is far from over, and his impact on the NFL will continue to be felt for seasons to come.
