FRISCO, TX — As training camp approaches, the Dallas Cowboys boosted their already impressive defensive line by adding a star pass rusher to the mix.
The Cowboys have agreed to a one-year deal with former Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen on Wednesday night per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. He is set to join a dominant Dallas D-Line including DeMarcus Lawrence, Gerald McCoy, Tyrone Crawford, Aldon Smith, Dontari Poe, and Neville Gallimore. According to multiple reports, the Seahawks and Vikings were involved in discussions with Griffen but the Cowboys met his demands. Dallas was interested in Griffen throughout the offseason and added the edge rusher before camp.
In 2019 for the Vikings, the four-time pro bowl veteran recorded 35 pressures, 8.0 sacks, and an interception. Throughout his 10-year tenure with Minnesota, Griffen accumulated 74.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, 176 quarterback hits, and 332 tackles.
New Cowboys’ head coach Mike McCarthy faced Griffen for many years during his time in Green Bay in the NFC North. Griffen is now reunited in Dallas with former Vikings defensive coordinator George Edwards.
The Cowboys lost last year’s sack leader Robert Quinn to the Chicago Bears in free agency. They picked up Aldon Smith but he has not played a snap of football since 2015 and there is no updated news on Rangy Gregory’s reinstatement. Tyrone Crawford had double hip surgery that sidelined him for most of the 2019 season. The Cowboys added more depth and insurance with Griffen.
Griffen has had some mental health issues in the past that resulted in highs and lows. He is a talented pass rusher at peak form and would be a lethal pass-rush combination with Lawrence. With the right coaching and pushing from Nolan and Tomsula, the sky is the limit for Griffen. He is an extremely versatile lineman who can rush the passer from a variety of positions: defensive end, tackle, and linebacker. He is also an effective run defender and solid in coverage. Another solid addition by Dallas to add to Nolan’s arsenal.
