The Dallas Cowboys have made significant strides in rebuilding their linebacker corps after a rough season last year, where the unit was considered one of the worst in the league. The key to this improvement appears to be a shift in defensive philosophy between defensive coordinators Dan Quinn and Mike Zimmer. While both coaches maintain similar approaches to linebacker play, the main difference lies in how they direct their defensive lines. Quinn focused on pressuring the quarterback, while Zimmer emphasizes stopping the run.
Personnel changes have also played a critical role in Dallas’ defensive turnaround. The decision to bring in veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks has paid off, with Kendricks leading the team in tackles through Week 13 with 104. He has also been an invaluable mentor to rookie DeMarvion Overshown, who is showing signs of being a future star. Kendricks’ addition, however, was largely due to his prior relationship with Zimmer, and should Zimmer leave in an expected coaching overhaul, Kendricks’ future with the Cowboys could be uncertain.
As the season progresses, speculation is growing that the entire Cowboys coaching staff could be let go, especially given the team’s struggles in defensive performance. Dallas currently ranks 31st in the NFL for points allowed, which has fueled the possibility of sweeping changes. In the event of a coaching change, the Cowboys might be looking to bring in a new veteran linebacker to fit the defensive scheme of the new regime.
Bleacher Report’s scouting department believes that Dre Greenlaw of the San Francisco 49ers would be an ideal candidate to fill the linebacker void in Dallas. Greenlaw, who is coming off a torn Achilles, has returned to practice recently and is known for his well-rounded skill set. At his peak, he excels in both coverage and against the run, making him an attractive option for the Cowboys if they need to find a replacement for Kendricks.
Greenlaw, a six-year veteran, has been a key defender for the 49ers when healthy. Over the past two seasons, he has posted strong coverage grades of 82.6 and 79.5, demonstrating his ability to excel in pass defense. Despite his injury setbacks, his proven track record as a top-tier linebacker makes him a desirable target for any team looking to bolster its defense.
The Cowboys are also grooming rookie linebacker Marist Liufau, a third-round draft pick from Notre Dame, who has seen considerable playing time this season. However, Liufau’s role has diminished in recent weeks, with his snap count dropping over the past five games. Depending on the defensive scheme adopted by the next coaching staff, Liufau could either be considered for the middle linebacker position or shifted to a strongside role.
While Greenlaw’s status with the 49ers is uncertain due to his injury and the team’s potential salary cap decisions, his ability to make an impact in coverage and against the run could make him a valuable asset for the Cowboys in the upcoming offseason. If Dallas decides to pursue a new linebacker, Greenlaw’s well-rounded skills and experience could be just what they need to upgrade their defense moving forward.
