Even during a bye week the Dallas Cowboys still find a way to keep their name in the headlines. This time it’s through the latest personnel move by Jerry Jones and Co. acquiring New England Patriots defensive end Michael Bennett for a seventh-round draft pick that can become a sixth-round pick in 2021. At first glance, the outspoken Bennett seems like an odd fit but look a little deeper and you’ll find that another strong move was made. Heres how.
1. Good Timing
With sack leader Robert Quinn suffering a rib injury in the Cowboys win over the Philadelphia Eagles the timing couldn’t be better. Bennett’s 2.5 sacks are good enough for third-most on the team at this juncture trailing only all-pro Demarcus Lawrence and his 3.5 sacks. Factor in that the team is already down end/tackle Tyrone Crawford who suffered a season-ending injury and you have a sudden need. Depending on the severity of Quinn’s injury and what his situation is following the bye week Bennett might find himself in the starting lineup sooner rather than later.
2. Proven Option
No disrespect to fellow ends Dorrance Armstrong and Kerry Hyder as I think Armstrong, in particular, has a bright future but Bennett provides something he doesn’t; being a proven commodity. Not only is he a Super Bowl champion but along with Lawrence and Quinn will form a deadly trio not to mention Armstrong coming into his own as of late. A deep line rotation has been a staple of the Cowboys defense as of late and this only adds to it. While Bennett’s numbers might not wow you one can only imagine the damage he can do with the help he has.
3. Too Good To Pass Up
Even though Bennett himself was undrafted coming out of Texas A&M and the Cowboys have had some luck with late-round picks this was a deal that was simply too good to pass up. If you are the Cowboys with championship asperations you’re willing to do anything to reach that goal. It’s been no secret that with more teams double-teaming Lawrence and Quinn missing the first couple of games the pass rush was lacking and honestly lacks anytime Quinn goes to the sideline. Getting another edge rusher had to be high on the list. Not to mention they essentially killed two birds with one stone as Bennett can also kick inside seamlessly filling in the void left by Crawford. All that for a seventh-round pick is a tremendous value.
4. Championship Mentality
As mentioned earlier Bennett is a champion and knows what it takes to not only get there but win. Not many Cowboys can say that. One can’t undervalue the impact that can have. Add in the fact the treasure trove of techniques and tricks he can not only teach the young guys like Armstrong and rookie Jalen Jelks but even players like Lawrence. This is lining up to be a win on the game field and practice field.