Oct 16, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis (2) in the tunnel against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Cowboys’ ‘Bright Spot’ Could Make Even Bigger Impact on Defense in 2025

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By Matt Lombardo | Last updated May 14, 2025 1:54 PM ET

The Dallas Cowboys defense was besieged by injuries to key contributors last season, and getting those players back, healthy, and on the field is a big reason for optimism that the franchise could push for a return to the postseason this fall.

Despite stars such as Micah Parsons and Daron Bland missing significant playing time last season, nickel cornerback Jourdan Lewis thrived and could be in line to make an even bigger impact for the Cowboys in 2025.

Jourdan Lewis Named the Dallas Cowboys’ Most Underrated Player

Pro Football Focus analyst Jonathan Macri put together a list of each team’s most underrated player ahead of the 2025 season kicking off, including Lewis making the cut for the Cowboys.

“Among 97 qualifying slot cornerbacks in 2024,” Macri writes for PFF. “Lewis ranked sixth in PFF coverage grade (80.5) from a slot alignment. Among the same cohort, he placed 11th-best in first-down-plus-touchdown rate allowed in coverage (27.9%).

“Considering the struggles of the Cowboys’ defense in 2024, and the team missing starters at cornerback for large chunks of the year, Lewis was undoubtedly one of the bright spots and should be viewed as an encouraging piece heading into 2025. He ranks behind only Micah Parsons in PFF overall grade (71.7) among returning defenders in Dallas.”

Lewis might be unheralded nationally, but he’s made a major impact on the Cowboys’ defense and is an ascending talent at a premium position. If hecan build on his strong showing in 2024, Dallas’ defense has the potential to make major strides in 2025.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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