Cowboys' Defensive Overhaul: New Strengths

0:00On April 26, the Dallas Cowboys just flipped their whole defensive blueprint, pouring premium cash and picks into spots they used to treat like, afterthoughts, defensive tackles and safeties, no more bargain hunting in the mid-rounds or one-year vet deals. Now, they're building a brick wall of front and lockdown coverage in the back with proven stars. For years, they swung and missed big time on the interior line. Second and first round picks like Tristan Hill and Mazzie Smith flopped hard, while free agent vets such as Gerald McCoy and Don Tari Poe washed out. Quick, safeties got the same cheat treatment, six throunders or undrafted guys holding it down, but never elite. Fans were fed up with that revolving door of disappointment, watching the run game feast on a soft middle and deep balls sail over average backs. It left the defense exposed, no matter how Michael Parsons balled out on the edge. Then they went all in, trading Parsons for veteran Kenny Clark Plus 2, first round picks, flipping one to snag Quinn and Williams at the deadline.

1:03This year, they broke a 24-year drought by grabbing Caleb Downs in the first round, their first top 75 pick on a safety since Roy. Williams back in 2002, they backed it with free agents Jalen Thompson and PJ Lock. Their revamped spine changes everything, turning glaring holes into league-best strengths that should lock down games and pay off for seasons ahead. That's your update from NFL News Today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with The Story.