The Dallas Cowboys are coming off a rough defensive season, but an ex-NFL quarterback sees a reason for optimism. His praise was focused on one part of new defensive Coordinator Christian Parker's defense, and he believes this defensive line is going to “eat” this year. 

After Tuesday's joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams, the revamped group looked more competitive. Former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel believes the group could become the foundation of a much-improved defense with a Fangio scheme disciple taking charge.

"And that is what a Vic Fangio defense does. They absolutely eat on that defensive line,” Daniel said on ESPN's NFL Live. “Even going back to the 49ers years, they've always had beasts on that D-line." 

Fangio’s San Francisco defenses showed how effective that approach can be, with stars like Justin Smith and Aldon Smith helping create pressure while more defenders stayed in coverage.

Now, Dallas is hoping that same formula can unlock its defensive line. Instead of relying on extra rushers, the Cowboys want their front four to make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks.

After allowing an NFL-worst 511 points, Dallas has little room for another slow start on defense if the team wants to return to playoff contention.

Notably, FOX Sports ranked this D-line 30th last year, after allowing 59 touchdowns.

"It's a system that's pretty simple at its core. But the first thing that Fangio would tell you is they do not want to blitz,” Daniel said on ESPN's NFL Live on August 12. “And if you have a defensive lineman or defensive line in general that can get pressure on a quarterback without blitzing, it leaves more people in coverage, right?"

Daniel's comments point directly to what Dallas hopes to get from its new-look front.

The Cowboys have Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark in the interior, giving first-year defensive coordinator Parker two experienced pieces capable of creating pressure.

Dallas offered an early glimpse of that potential against the Rams. The Cowboys weren't expected to shut down the Rams during a joint practice, but they held their own instead of getting overwhelmed like they often did last season.

Cowboys' revamped defense faces a major test

The bigger challenge will be maintaining that level once the regular season begins. Parker is installing his system in his first season as an NFL defensive coordinator, while more than half of Dallas' defensive starters are new.

The defensive line could determine how quickly everything comes together. Williams and Clark are expected to anchor the interior, while Rashan Gary gives Dallas another proven pass-rushing threat off the edge.

There have been encouraging signs elsewhere, too. Safety Caleb Downs and cornerback Kobie Durant are among the new additions expected to play significant roles.

In an interview with Fox News Reporter Eric Williams on August 11, Durant recently described the mentality Dallas is trying to establish during camp.

"Every day we come out here, we want to compete at a high level and do your one-eleventh," Durant told Williams. "And it's on display every day we come out here. High energy, everybody doing their part and bringing what we do in the classroom and making it come to life on the field."

The Cowboys finished last in points allowed last season, so the defensive line has plenty to clean up. Daniel's assessment will get an early test when Dallas takes the field this preseason.

The Cowboys will look to find their rhythm on defense when the revamped D-line faces the Seattle Seahawks in the first preseason game on August 15.

Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote