Zach Cunningham has captured the attention of the Dallas Cowboys as they strategize their offseason moves. The Cowboys are keen on adding Cunningham to their roster, viewing him as a key component in their quest for dominance.
In a twist that has Dallas Cowboys fans watching the offseason with bated breath, the team faces a formidable challenge. The retirement of Leighton Vander Esch, a pivotal figure in the Cowboys’ defensive lineup, has left a void that not just any player can fill. Vander Esch, who hung up his cleats this offseason at the age of 27, was not just a first-round draft pick but a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defence, orchestrating plays from the heart of the field.
As the Cowboys regroup, their strategy involves a mix of new signings and potential acquisitions. Notably, the team brought on Eric Kendricks, a former All-Pro whose experience could be invaluable, despite concerns that his peak performance days may be behind him. Alongside Kendricks, the Cowboys invested in youth by selecting Marist Liufau in the third round of the draft, a move that suggests a focus on building for the future, even as they shore up their immediate needs.
Dallas Cowboys Search for a Veteran Anchor
Yet, according to Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder, these measures might not be sufficient. The Cowboys are rumored to be in pursuit of linebacker Zach Cunningham, formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles, to further bolster their defensive ranks.
Cunningham’s tenure with the Eagles showcased his robust defensive skills, particularly in run-stopping, where he has been nothing short of prolific. His remarkable performance includes leading the NFL in tackles in 2020 and maintaining a high run defense grade from Pro Football Focus during his time with the Eagles.
“Zach Cunningham’s history of being a quality run-stopper would make him an ideal addition to the Cowboys’ roster, complementing Kendricks and providing depth and experience where it’s most needed,” Holder explains. Cunningham’s stats from the last season – 85 combined tackles, impressive pass deflections, and a crucial fumble recovery – underline his consistent ability to influence the game dynamically.
Zach Cunningham’s Major Challenges
Despite these strengths, Cunningham’s recent seasons have not been without challenges. Hamstring and knee injuries limited his playtime, which, while concerning, could potentially make him a more affordable option for the Cowboys. This aspect is especially appealing given the financial balancing act involved in building a Super Bowl-caliber team.
As Cunningham enters his age-30 season, the Cowboys might view him as the perfect candidate to stabilize their linebacking corps. His addition could prove to be a masterstroke for a team poised to make a deep playoff run, aiming to capitalize on their current roster’s strengths and mitigate its vulnerabilities.
A Calculated Gamble with High Rewards
For the Dallas Cowboys, the offseason is shaping up to be a period of calculated risks and strategic decisions. The potential acquisition of Zach Cunningham represents more than just filling a gap; it’s about enhancing the team’s defensive framework to compete at the highest levels.
If the Cowboys can secure Cunningham, they may well have positioned themselves for a season that lives up to the lofty expectations of their dedicated fan base. With the draft and signings reflecting a blend of experience and potential, the Cowboys are crafting a defense that could be the envy of the league.
Source- Fansided
