FRISCO, Texas – Despite recent speculation regarding the future of DeMarcus Lawrence in Dallas, the Cowboys locked up the pass-rush force for 2022 and beyond. The extension is mutually beneficial for both parties. The three-year deal reduces Lawrence’s cap hit for the upcoming season and allows the Cowboys an opportunity to add talent to the defense, building off last year’s success.
Lawrence is under contract through 2024, with $30 million guaranteed over the first two years of the contract, worth up to $40 million. Most notably, his cap number goes down from the original $27 million to $14 million, providing space underneath the cap.
In 2017 and 2018, Lawrence recorded 24.5 sacks and was named to the Pro Bowl in each, garnering a lucrative deal before the 2019 season. He signed a five-year, $105 million contract, making him the richest player in Cowboys’ history at the time of the signing. Since the lofty pay day, Lawrence’s sack numbers have dipped to 14.5 over the previous three seasons donning a Star. However, his impact cannot be dictated by statistics. Lawrence often commands double teams, freeing up opportunities for players around him to rush the passer. Of the Cowboys’ defensive linemen, Lawrence plays the run the best of the unit at the point of attack.
Lawrence missed 10 games in 2021 after suffering a broken foot during a routine pass rush drill in practice last September. He returned to the field and made his presence felt, concluding the regular season with three sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception. Lawrence’s relentless pressure up front consistently caused errant throws, benefiting the Dallas secondary. The team’s star left defensive end turns 30 next month and is the club’s most valued defensive lineman. It would have been a challenge for the defense to take a step forward after last year’s efforts under Dan Quinn without Lawrence anchoring the line.
He remains the unquestioned leader of the Dallas defense and along with Micah Parsons at the second level and Trevon Diggs on the back end – the trio has created a stout foundation. The Cowboys are still hopeful they can sign Randy Gregory and that their longtime support of the embattled player will pay off. With his future in question, Dallas needs to address right defensive end. With Lawrence sticking around and a significant reduction in his cap hit, the Cowboys’ will be able to sign key free agents to bolster the defense around him.
