Cowboys Bullish On Pass Rush In Training Camp: 'Guys Have Jumped Out!'

The Dallas Cowboys' defense under Matt Eberflus has made life tough for Brian Schottenheimer's offense through the first week of training camp.

With takeaways every day and sacks coming frequently, the defense, for some, has "won" more days than the offense. Of course, Dak Prescott and Co. get theirs too, but the defense appears to be in a good spot.

And that's without Micah Parsons wreaking havoc, too.

For head coach Brian Schottenheimer, he's liked what the defensive line has done in camp.

“Some guys have jumped out,” Schottenheimer said. “Sam Williams having a hell of a camp, nobody's surprised by that. Donovan Ezeiruaku is showing up for sure, first step quickness is really incredible. Dante Fowler's having a great camp, Marshawn's [Kneeland] doing some good things. So really most of those guys have showed up.

"They're giving our tackles great work and from the inside, Osa [Odighizuwa] is always going to do his thing. Solomon's [Thomas] been great. Mazi's been pushing the pocket. I love the competition.”

So, the pass rush and defensive line appear to be in good order, but we will get a true test of that when the Los Angeles Rams come for a joint practice. Soloman Thomas had a pair of would-be sacks in practice, as the free agent signing appears to be settling in well, while Mazi Smith has had some nice moments.

What this unit could become in 2025 is rather interesting, and the line has had good production since Day 1 in Oxnard, and that is without No. 11 doing his thing, too. So, what the group could do when Parsons gets back is anyone's guess.

Williams and "Eze" have been the standouts in camp, along with Dante Fowler Jr., so the Cowboys' pass rush has some venom even without Parsons.

So, imagine what it could look like with the "Lion" on the prowl.