In a strategic shift that underscores the Dallas Cowboys’ ongoing efforts to optimize their defense, the team is set to transition Markquese Bell back to the safety position for the upcoming season. Bell, who initially joined the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent and a collegiate safety, showed significant prowess on the field last season as a linebacker, amassing an impressive 94 total tackles across 17 games.
Markquese Bell’s Stellar Performance in Review
Markquese Bell’s tenure as linebacker not only saw him contributing extensively to the Cowboys’ defense but also earning commendations from advanced analytics. His overall performance received a laudatory 76.8 grade from Pro Football Focus, positioning him 18th out of 74 players in his category.
Notably, his coverage skills, likely honed from his days playing safety, were particularly standout, earning him the fifth-highest grade among linebackers.
Mike Zimmer Shifts Markquese Bell to Safety
The recent departure of former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, who moved on to head the Commanders, led to the appointment of Mike Zimmer as his successor. Zimmer, recognizing Bell’s natural aptitude for the safety role and his slightly undersized frame for a linebacker, opted to revert Bell to his original position. This decision aligns with Zimmer’s preference for more physically imposing players in the linebacker spots.
David Moore of the Dallas Morning News confirmed this strategic realignment, citing Zimmer’s intentions to leverage Bell’s defensive skills more effectively. Despite his robust performance last season, Bell’s physical stature and relative inexperience as a linebacker occasionally left him vulnerable, particularly highlighted during the Cowboys’ unexpected playoff defeat.
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Dallas Cowboys Strengthen Linebacker Corps Strategy
The shift comes as the Dallas Cowboys continue to bolster their linebacker corps, having recently reunited Zimmer with Eric Kendricks, a seasoned player under Zimmer’s previous tenure with the Vikings. Kendricks, alongside Damone Clark and DeMarvion Overshown, is expected to fortify the middle of the defense, which has been perceived as a weaker link according to Moore.
The team’s approach to the upcoming draft also reflects strategic planning, with insights suggesting a focus on enhancing the linebacker unit without utilizing their first-round pick. Moore hints at potential acquisitions during the early rounds of the draft, marking a calculated approach to team reinforcement.
Markquese Bell’s Role and the Safety Squadron
With Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson already holding down the starting safety positions under multi-year deals, Bell’s return to safety might not guarantee him a starting role immediately. However, his proven track record and adaptability promise that he will be a valuable asset in varying capacities.
Dallas Cowboys Revamp Defense with Markquese Bell
As the Dallas Cowboys navigate these changes, the repositioning of Markquese Bell is a significant move aimed at capitalizing on his strengths and shoring up the team’s defensive strategy. This adjustment not only hopes to remedy some of the vulnerabilities seen last season but also primes the team for a more robust defensive stance in the challenging games ahead.
Sources: Yardbarker
