Dante Fowler agrees to term with Cowboys to reunites with Matt Eberflus defense.
A Strategic Move for the Cowboys
Fowler’s agreement with the Cowboys comes as a part of their ongoing efforts to improve their defense. The 29-year-old edge rusher brings both experience and high potential to the table, having played for a number of teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars, Los Angeles Rams, and most recently, the Atlanta Falcons. His signing is seen as a major boost for the Cowboys’ defensive front.
Fowler’s ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt offensive plays has been a hallmark of his career. Known for his speed, strength, and versatility, he’s capable of both rushing the passer and playing effectively against the run. In 2022, Fowler registered four sacks with the Falcons, showing that despite facing injuries earlier in his career, he still has plenty of juice left in his tank.
The Reunion with Matt Eberflus
One of the key reasons for Fowler’s decision to join the Cowboys is his reunion with Matt Eberflus, now the head coach of the Chicago Bears. The two previously worked together when Eberflus was the defensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, and Fowler flourished under his coaching. Eberflus’ defensive philosophy emphasizes creating pressure through aggressive front-seven play, something Fowler excels at.
Fowler’s familiarity with Eberflus’ defensive schemes will likely expedite his integration into the Cowboys’ system. The synergy between the two figures is expected to unlock Fowler’s full potential as he gets another chance to shine in a system that suits his skillset.
Cowboys’ Defensive Outlook
For the Cowboys, securing Fowler provides them with a player who can immediately help increase the pass-rush pressure, which has been one of their focal points in recent years. With the addition of Fowler, Dallas now has a well-rounded defensive line capable of both sacking the quarterback and stifling opposing run games.
Fowler’s presence will also complement the Cowboys’ other key defensive players, including linebacker Micah Parsons, who is widely regarded as one of the most disruptive defenders in the league. Together, Fowler and Parsons form a formidable tandem that can wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks.
Fowler’s Career Trajectory
Fowler, a former first-round draft pick (third overall) by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2015, had a promising start to his career but encountered some setbacks due to injuries. However, he still managed to put together an impressive body of work, including a strong season with the Los Angeles Rams in 2018, where he was part of the team’s Super Bowl appearance. Fowler’s potential, combined with his drive to prove himself, makes this latest chapter in his career one to watch closely.
The Cowboys are hoping that Fowler can rediscover his form and contribute to a defense that was already among the best in the NFL in 2022. By reuniting with Eberflus, Fowler may find himself playing in a system that maximizes his strengths, and that could be the key to revitalizing his career.
Looking Ahead
As the Cowboys prepare for the upcoming season, Fowler’s addition to the defensive lineup is seen as a step in the right direction. The pressure will be on him to live up to expectations, but with a solid support system in Dallas and a familiar defensive philosophy under Eberflus, Fowler has a real opportunity to make a significant impact on the field.
For both Fowler and the Cowboys, the hope is that this reunion will reignite the spark in the veteran pass rusher’s career and help the team make a deeper run in the playoffs. If Fowler can stay healthy and continue to grow within the Cowboys’ defense, Dallas will have a valuable piece to their championship puzzle.
