Cowboys Fans May Not Want to See This Horrendous Stat from Starting DT
As the Dallas Cowboys continue their 2024 NFL season, their loyal fanbase is riding high with hopes for a deep playoff run. But amidst the excitement, there’s one glaring issue that Cowboys fans might want to turn a blind eye to— a shocking stat from one of the team’s key defensive players, the starting defensive tackle (DT).
This season, the Cowboys’ defense has largely been solid, thanks to a combination of defensive line pressure, Micah Parsons’ versatility, and the improvement in the secondary. However, a concerning trend has emerged in the play of their starting defensive tackle, and it’s a stat that could derail the team’s Super Bowl aspirations if not corrected.
The Stat No One Wants to See
Through the first seven games of the season, the Cowboys’ starting DT has registered only 4 solo tackles and 0 sacks. Yes, you read that right—zero sacks. For a player expected to be a disruptive force in the trenches, this is a deeply troubling figure. The job of a defensive tackle in the modern NFL goes beyond stuffing the run; it’s about collapsing the pocket and creating pressure that forces opposing quarterbacks into hurried decisions. When your starting DT isn’t getting to the quarterback or creating any real impact, it exposes weaknesses that even the most talented secondary can’t cover for long.
Worse yet, his run defense stats are equally alarming, as he’s been credited with just 5 tackles for loss (TFL) all season, while allowing over 4 yards per carry when opposing teams run the ball up the middle. This is well below league average for an interior lineman at his position.
Why This Matters
For a team with Super Bowl aspirations like the Cowboys, it’s critical that every unit functions at a high level. The defensive line, in particular, is the engine of any great defense. When your starting DT struggles to generate pressure or make a difference in the run game, the ripple effects are felt everywhere. Opposing offenses are able to control the clock, wear down the Cowboys’ defense, and neutralize their biggest weapon—an explosive offense led by Dak Prescott.
What’s more, the lack of production from the DT position has put additional pressure on the Cowboys’ edge rushers, like DeMarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons, to make plays. While Parsons is undoubtedly one of the best defenders in the league, he can’t be expected to do everything. A strong interior presence is necessary to keep offensive lines honest and create one-on-one opportunities for the edge.
Can the Cowboys Fix This?
The good news is that it’s still early in the season, and there is time to turn things around. But the clock is ticking. The Cowboys’ coaching staff has likely already noticed this troubling trend and may be looking for ways to mask the deficiencies at the defensive tackle position. Whether that means dialing up more blitz packages to help generate interior pressure or potentially looking for help via trade, something needs to change.
One option is to give more snaps to backup DTs who have shown flashes in limited action. Some of the younger players on the roster might be able to step up and provide the spark the Cowboys’ defensive line is lacking. Alternatively, the front office could look to make a move before the trade deadline, though finding a quality DT midseason is never easy.
The Road Ahead
For now, Cowboys fans will have to hold their breath and hope that the team’s defensive tackle can improve. If he doesn’t, the Cowboys may find themselves struggling in the latter half of the season, especially against teams with strong running games and dominant offensive lines. While it’s tempting to overlook this stat given the overall success of the team, it could become the Achilles heel that prevents the Cowboys from making a deep playoff run.
So, Cowboys Nation, buckle up—this horrendous stat might not be the last
we hear of it this season.
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