Posted on Aug 22
Cowboys sign veteran DT Linval Joseph to strengthen their defensive line, says Mike Zimmer
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The Dallas Cowboys have signed veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph, reuniting him with former head coach Mike Zimmer.
Why it matters: The addition of Linval Joseph provides the Cowboys with experience and depth on their defensive line, addressing a key area of concern.
Joseph brings a wealth of experience to the Cowboys:
- He is 35 years old and has played for both the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Giants.
- Throughout his career, he has been credited with 676 tackles and has earned two Pro Bowl selections.
The Cowboys have been focused on improving their run defense:
- They have made several moves to bolster their defensive line, including acquiring Jordan Phillips and signing Carl Lawson.
- The addition of Joseph adds further size and experience to the group, enhancing their ability to stop the run.
Quotes from key figures:
- Jerry Jones, owner and general manager of the Cowboys, expressed the team's intention to add help to their defensive line, indicating their proactive approach to addressing their needs.
- Mike Zimmer, former head coach of the Vikings and current defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, spoke highly of Joseph, emphasizing his impact as both a player and a person.
- Zimmer also praised the Cowboys' efforts in adding quality players to their defense, highlighting their commitment to strengthening the team.
What's next: With Joseph on board, the Cowboys will have a formidable defensive line rotation. They will likely utilize Joseph at the nose tackle position alongside promising rookie Mazi Smith, while Osa Odighizuwa and Jordan Phillips handle the 3-technique spot.
The bottom line: By bringing in Linval Joseph, the Cowboys have fortified their defensive line and addressed a crucial area of need. The addition of Joseph, along with other defensive acquisitions, positions the Cowboys to improve their performance against the run in the upcoming season.