FRISCO — DeMarcus Lawrence has been synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys defense over the last decade. Despite massive changes from quarterback, head coach and other spots on the roster and staff, Lawrence has been one of the constants in that span.
Once the self-proclaimed leader of the “Hot Boyz” Lawrence’s role has shifted from young star to defensive leader and has become veteran mentor/co-leader of this group with Micah Parsons entering the fold.
Parsons is set to receive a massive contract extension this offseason and the Cowboys have assets tied up elsewhere. That may spell an unfortunate end to Lawrence’s tenure in Dallas.
But choosing to let Lawrence walk means accepting a reality where he signs elsewhere, including a rival team. For the Cowboys, two of their most vaunted rivals could find themselves in pursuit of a player like Lawrence in the coming months.
Starting with the Washington Commanders , there is an obvious landing spot for Lawrence. Dallas’ hated rival has cap space to spend and is looking to beef up their defensive interior.
Dan Quinn poached a few players when he left town last offseason including Tyler Biadacz and Dorance Armstrong who worked with Lawrence on the Cowboys defensive front. There is a clear vision there for Lawrence to land with a familiar face.
Additionally, the San Francisco 49ers are in need of some muscle up front to compliment Nick Bosa on their line. Based on the way the Niners started their offseason, there is a clear commitment to that side of the ball.
San Francisco banked its defensive coordinator search on Robert Saleh’s return and succeeded. A veteran like Lawrence would be an enticing option for Saleh if they can get him at the right price.
Additionally, the San Francisco 49ers are in need of some muscle up front to compliment Nick Bosa on their line. Based on the way the Niners started their offseason, there is a clear commitment to that side of the ball.
San Francisco banked its defensive coordinator search on Robert Saleh’s return and succeeded. A veteran like Lawrence would be an enticing option for Saleh if they can get him at the right price.
Once those matters are attended to, the Niners could land a major troll to Dallas by signing their former defensive leader.
If Lawrence and the Cowboys both decide to part ways, there will be more than two teams that entertain the signing of “Tank” to their squad. Going down that path, the Cowboys are opening the door for a major revenge arc on part of a former franchise centerpiece.
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