Dallas Cowboys Target Jermaine Johnson as Ideal EDGE Solution Ahead of Trade Deadline
The NFL trade deadline is on the horizon, and the Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a crucial juncture. With the potential for a significant acquisition that promises to address long-term needs rather than just immediate fixes, the team’s front office is poised for action. As the Cowboys gear up for their Week 9 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, the focus will soon shift to the opportunities that lie ahead in the trade market.
Front Office Open for Business
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has signaled that the team will be “open for business” as the deadline approaches. Executive Vice President Stephen Jones underscored this sentiment, suggesting that the organization is ready to make moves, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. This comes in the wake of their ongoing search for a strategic solution to fill the gap left by standout linebacker Micah Parsons.
Analyst Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report has identified a fitting candidate: Jermaine Johnson II of the New York Jets. Gagnon argues that acquiring Johnson could significantly bolster the Cowboys’ defensive lineup. He notes, “There’s a Micah Parsons-sized hole impacting the Cowboys defense. Johnson isn’t Trey Hendrickson, but he’s younger and under contract through 2026. I think that aligns better with the Cowboys’ need for a longer-term solution.”
Jermaine Johnson’s Skill Set and Potential Impact
Johnson, a former first-round pick, has experience that could prove invaluable to the Cowboys. He previously worked with current Dallas defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton during his time with the Jets. Acquiring Johnson might only require a Day 3 draft pick, making him a cost-effective option as the Cowboys look to improve their defense.
At just 26 years old, Johnson offers a blend of youth and experience, fitting seamlessly into a linebacking corps that includes promising talents like Overshown, Kenneth Murray, Jack Sanborn, Marist Liufau, and Shemar James. This infusion of youthful depth could be a game-changer for the Cowboys.
Johnson’s 2023 Performance and Versatility
This season, Johnson has recorded 19 total tackles, one sack, a pass defended, and a run stop, showcasing his ability to contribute in various facets of the game. In his most recent full season, he amassed an impressive 55 tackles, 7.5 sacks, one forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and an interception that he returned for a touchdown. His versatility allows him to play both standing and with his hand in the dirt, providing the Cowboys with much-needed flexibility as they seek to shore up their defense.
As the Cowboys prepare for the impending trade deadline on Tuesday, November 4, at 4:00 p.m. ET, the prospect of acquiring Jermaine Johnson stands out as a strategic move. The combination of his skill set, youth, and potential to fit into the team’s long-term plans makes him an enticing option for a franchise looking to make a meaningful impact on both the present and future of its defense.
