What are you most interested in watching at training camp for the Cowboys defense?
The Dallas Cowboys soon report to Oxnard, California for training camp with the first official practice kicking off July 22, but the pads don’t come on until about a week later on the 27th. Previously, we looked at what the story will be at each position on offense. Today, we look at the defense.
Defensive tackle
Can Mazi Smith take a significant jump in his development entering Year 3 with the Cowboys? That’s what were going to be focusing on when training camp gets underway in a matter of days. The former first-round pick has unfortunately played under a different defensive coordinator every year since arriving in Dallas, likely stunting his development. We’re crossing our fingers 2025 will be a breakout season for under Matt Eberflus’ tutelage.
Defensive end
Excluding Micah Parsons’ ongoing contract negotiations with the Cowboys, we’re going to be monitoring the position battle opposite him to see who emerges as DeMarcus Lawrence replacement this year. The Cowboys have an intriguing group of pass rushers, nearly all of which are former first- and second-round draft picks. It’s going to be really interesting to see how all of this plays out and who ends up fitting where on the depth chart this year.
Linebacker
DeMarvion Overshown’s timetable to return to the field is definitely worth monitoring, but we’re going to be paying particularly close attention to both Jack Sanborn and Kenneth Murray Jr., who are projected to be the starting LBs this season. Sanborn’s familiarity with Matt Eberflus’ scheme due to their time together in Chicago should make him stand out early. Murray is a little more of a mystery, but an intriguing one considering Dallas traded for him.
Cornerback
The thing to watch at the cornerback position is obviously players working their way back from last year’s season-ending injuries. Trevon Diggs, Shavon Revel, and Josh Butler should be brought along slowly because of this, creating opportunities for Kaiir Elam, Israel Mukuamu and others to prove their worth and catch the attention of the coaching staff. It’s going to be really interesting to see who wins up starting where early on for the Cowboys.
Safety
Are Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker the unquestioned starters at safety in 2025? Juanyeh Thomas, Markquese Bell, and maybe even undrafted rookie Alijah Clark may have something to say about that. Thomas is definitely somebody to keep an eye on. He’s flashed starting ability the last few seasons and recently got some work playing slot earlier this offseason. Maybe this is the year he finally plays a significant role in Dallas’ secondary.