Following an offseason that commenced with high expectations, the Dallas Cowboys have shifted their approach to making strategic additions with the resources available. Now, the Cowboys are focused on finalizing their 90-man roster as they gear up for training camp in late July.
One of their latest moves includes scheduling a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey has emerged as one of the standout performers in the United Football League (UFL). Leading the league with an impressive 78 total tackles during its 10-game season, he has also displayed remarkable versatility and impact. Harvey led all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). His stellar performance earned him one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots on the UFL's inaugural All-League team.
A Journey of Persistence
Harvey's journey to professional football has been anything but smooth. Going undrafted out of Iowa State in 2019, he was picked up by the Cleveland Browns. His time with the Browns saw him oscillating between the practice squad and the active roster, appearing in four NFL games. His last NFL appearance came during the 2021 season when he recorded a tackle in Cleveland's Week 17 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite limited opportunities, Harvey made his mark on special teams, recording two tackles in his four-game NFL career.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have shown a knack for uncovering talent in alternative leagues. In 2022, they signed KaVontae Turpin, a wide receiver and return man who had earned MVP honors in the USFL. Turpin made an immediate impact, earning Pro Bowl honors as a rookie. Last season, the Cowboys added kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL. Aubrey set the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35). He tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35) and set the record for the most touchbacks on kickoffs in a single season (99). He earned first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2023.
The Potential Impact of Harvey
Given this track record of success with players from alternative leagues, it wouldn't be surprising if Willie Harvey Jr. made a significant impact should the Cowboys decide to sign him. His UFL performance suggests that he has the potential to become a regular starter or provide valuable depth. The Cowboys' ability to find and develop talent from alternative leagues could once again prove fruitful with the addition of Harvey.
Coach McCarthy's Perspective
Coach Mike McCarthy has consistently emphasized the team’s commitment to improving the roster. "I think it's just kind of where we are," McCarthy said. "We're never done. I actually just met with (vice president of player personnel) Will (McClay) for quite some time this morning. We got plenty of really good players to practice and get ready. We were at 88 this time last year."
As the Cowboys continue to refine their roster ahead of the upcoming season, their strategic approach and history of integrating talent from alternative leagues stand as a testament to their commitment to fielding a competitive team. The addition of Willie Harvey Jr. could be another step in that direction, bolstering their defensive lineup and providing depth in key positions.