The Cowboys’ Pursuit of a 17-Sack Breakout Player: A Game-Changing Move
In the NFL, the path to success often requires continuous adjustments to strengthen the roster and maximize potential. For the Dallas Cowboys, a team with a rich history and a competitive present, finding that extra edge is crucial for securing playoff victories and, ultimately, a Super Bowl championship. One of the most vital aspects of team success in today’s NFL is a dominant defense. With a strong defense already in place, the Cowboys are looking to elevate their pass rush, particularly with the addition of a breakout player who could achieve 17 sacks—a career-defining milestone for any defensive player.
In this article, we’ll explore the significance of a 17-sack season for the Cowboys, who could be the player to achieve it, and how this potential addition could reshape the defense for the better.
Why 17 Sacks Matter for the Cowboys
A 17-sack season is no small feat. For context, the single-season sack record is held by Michael Strahan, who racked up 22.5 sacks in 2001. In recent years, players like T.J. Watt (22.5 sacks in 2021) and Aaron Donald (20.5 sacks in 2018) have also shown that elite sack totals are attainable for a well-rounded defensive player. A player who reaches 17 sacks in a season puts themselves in the conversation among the NFL’s elite pass rushers, and the Cowboys could use someone with that level of dominance.
For the Cowboys, adding a 17-sack player could provide multiple advantages:
- Pressure on the Quarterback: In today’s pass-heavy NFL, the ability to consistently pressure and sack the quarterback is crucial. With quarterbacks getting the ball out faster than ever, a potent pass rush can make a quarterback uncomfortable, force bad throws, and create turnovers.
- Creating Takeaways: A sack often leads to lost yards, but it also increases the chance of a fumble. A player capable of reaching 17 sacks will likely also force more fumbles, contributing to the Cowboys’ turnover differential.
- Easing the Burden on the Secondary: When a defense can generate constant pressure up front, it makes the job of the secondary much easier. Cornerbacks and safeties don’t have to cover as long, and that can lead to more interceptions and pass deflections.
- Setting a Tone: A player who consistently reaches the quarterback sends a message to opposing offenses—if you don’t account for this player, they’ll make you pay. The intimidation factor alone could alter the way opponents game-plan against the Cowboys.
In short, a 17-sack player could be the missing link the Cowboys need to take their defense from excellent to elite. Now, let’s look at who could potentially be that player.
Who Could Be the Cowboys’ 17-Sack Breakout Player?
The Cowboys already have a strong defense, with established players like Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Leighton Vander Esch. However, there is always room for improvement, especially in the pass rush. Let’s break down a few potential candidates who could emerge as the 17-sack breakout player for the Cowboys.
1. Micah Parsons: The Rising Star
One of the most exciting and versatile defensive players in the NFL today, Micah Parsons is already a key cog in the Cowboys’ defense. The 2021 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, Parsons has rapidly developed into one of the league’s top pass rushers. In his first two seasons, he notched 13 sacks in his rookie year and 13.5 sacks in his second season.
Parsons’ athleticism, speed, and ability to rush the passer from multiple positions make him an ideal candidate to hit the 17-sack mark. His ability to move between linebacker and defensive end allows the Cowboys to put him in the most advantageous situations, depending on the opponent’s offensive line.
A 17-sack season for Parsons is within reach, as he has already shown he can dominate in key moments. With continued development and perhaps a more focused effort on the edge, Parsons could be the breakout player who hits the milestone.
2. DeMarcus Lawrence: The Veteran Pass Rusher
While DeMarcus Lawrence may not have had the sack totals of Parsons, he remains a key contributor to the Cowboys’ pass rush. A veteran presence on the line, Lawrence has had multiple double-digit sack seasons, including 14.5 sacks in 2017. However, his sack totals in recent years have been inconsistent, partly due to injury issues.
If Lawrence can stay healthy and return to his prime form, he could have the breakout season the Cowboys need. At 32 years old, Lawrence is no longer the emerging star he once was, but he still has the ability to produce at a high level. If he remains motivated and rejuvenated, there’s a chance he could break through for a 17-sack season, providing a complementary threat alongside Parsons.
3. A Drafted Rookie or New Acquisition
There are also potential breakout candidates who have yet to make their mark in the NFL. In a draft filled with talented edge rushers, the Cowboys may look to add another young pass rusher to pair with Parsons and Lawrence. If the Cowboys can draft a player who fits their defensive scheme and develops quickly, it’s not out of the question that they could get a 17-sack season from a rookie, especially if Parsons draws attention away from him.
Alternatively, the Cowboys might look to add a proven veteran through free agency or a trade. A player like Yannick Ngakoue, who has posted double-digit sacks in multiple seasons, could be a perfect fit for the Cowboys. With Ngakoue on the roster, the pass rush would become even more formidable, creating opportunities for other players to rack up sacks.
How the 17-Sack Player Impacts the Team
Assuming the Cowboys manage to add a 17-sack player to their defensive rotation, the impact on the team would be immediate and far-reaching. Here’s how the addition could change the course of the season:
- Defensive Depth and Flexibility: A 17-sack player would bolster the Cowboys’ pass rush depth. With Parsons already capable of getting to the quarterback and Lawrence contributing from the edge, adding another elite pass rusher would create constant pressure on opposing quarterbacks. This could force offensive lines to account for multiple players, opening up opportunities for sacks and hurries.
- Increased Turnover Potential: With a constant pass rush, the Cowboys’ defense would have a better chance of forcing turnovers. Quarterbacks under duress are more likely to throw interceptions or make mistakes, and a 17-sack player could force fumbles as well. This would shift the Cowboys’ defense into a high-octane, turnover-generating unit, giving their offense more chances to score.
- Improved Postseason Success: While regular-season success is important, the NFL playoffs are where a team’s true championship credentials are tested. In the postseason, where games are won and lost by the smallest of margins, a 17-sack player can be the difference-maker. A pass rusher capable of disrupting quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts, Brock Purdy, or Dak Prescott (if facing off against another team in the NFC) would make the Cowboys’ defense nearly unstoppable.
- A Complete Defense: The addition of a player capable of 17 sacks would complement the Cowboys’ existing strength in the secondary, led by standout cornerback Trevon Diggs. With more pressure on the quarterback, the secondary has more time to make plays, leading to more deflections, interceptions, and overall improved coverage.
