The speculation has come to an end. After previous rumblings of the Dallas Cowboys having an interest in bringing back Aldon Smith in 2021 getting walked back, the former All-Pro signed with the Seattle Seahawks on a one-year deal. Losing Smith hurts the Cowboy’s rotation on the defensive line, but it also creates an opportunity for others to step up.
Guys like Dorance Armstrong, Bradlee Anae, free-agent signing Tarell Basham and ERFA retainee Ron’Dell Carter should be chomping at the bit with the possibility of increased roles. However, the departure of Smith opens up a huge chance for someone higher on the depth chart to see more action, and that’s Randy Gregory.
The Cowboys second-round pick in 2015 logged 271 defensive snaps in 2020. After just six snaps in his first game back in Week 7 against the Washington Football Team, Gregory registered at least 29 snaps in six of the final nine games he appeared in, and he made them all count.
Gregory finished with 21 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and 12 quarterback hits which were his second-highest totals in all three categories since entering the NFL. Also, he added three forced fumbles, the most he’s had in any season.
The former Nebraska Cornhusker now has the green light to become the top option at right defensive end opposite DeMarcus Lawrence. With only 28 games of NFL wear and tear on his body, Gregory shouldn’t have any problem shouldering the load and maximizing the immense talent that made him one of the most sought-after pass rushers coming from the collegiate ranks.
After a near two-year hiatus from actual game action, Gregory looked great in 2020. With an increased role and a full offseason to get himself prepared, he’ll have more opportunities to cause havoc on the right edge. If he’s successful, it could open up things on the left side for DeMarcus Lawrence who won’t see as many double teams. This will also help the interior of the Cowboys defensive line because they’ll see more one-on-one opportunities with so much attention being paid to the outside pass rush.
The Cowboys had arguably the worst defense in its history last season. Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn mentioned in January that he was looking to establish significant roles for players with unique aspects to their game. With that being said, he should look for every way possible to unleash Gregory which would increase the Cowboy’s chances of having a respectable defense to match their high-powered offense.
