Cowboys Sensationally Eyeing UFL’s Tackle Titan after Striking Gold in Spring League Gems –
The Dallas Cowboys’ Offseason Moves
After an inactive “all-in” offseason that transformed into the spring of “get it done with less,” the Dallas Cowboys have been on the hunt for remaining free agents to fill out their 90-man roster ahead of training camp in late July. The team is specifically looking to beef up its inside linebacker depth following the retirement of Leighton Vander Esch.
Working Out Willie Harvey Jr.
Your 2024 All-UFL Defense 👊
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— United Football League (@TheUFL) June 5, 2024
According to NFL Media, the Cowboys will work out St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr. on Tuesday. Harvey led the United Football League (UFL), the combined spring league created after the merger of the XFL and USFL, in total tackles with 78 during the league’s 10-game season.
Harvey’s Impressive UFL Performance
In addition to leading the UFL in total tackles, Harvey also led all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (9), passes defended (6), and forced fumbles (2). His standout production earned him one of the three inside linebacker spots on the UFL’s inaugural all-league team.
“We’re never done,” said head coach Mike McCarthy at organized team activities at the end of May when asked about the Cowboys adding to their roster.
Previous Spring League Signings
The Cowboys have had success with spring league signings in the past two years. In 2022, they signed USFL MVP wide receiver/return man KaVontae Turpin, who rewarded their faith by earning
Pro Bowl honors as a rookie.
Last season, the Cowboys signed kicker Brandon Aubrey out of the USFL, and he produced a historic season. Aubrey broke the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35) and finished tied for second for the second-most made field goals in a single season without a miss in league history (35). He also set the NFL’s all-time, single-season record for kickoff touchbacks (99) and earned 2023 first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors.
Harvey’s NFL Experience
Harvey was an undrafted free agent out of Iowa State in 2019 when the Cleveland Browns picked him up. He floated between the Browns’ practice squad and active roster, playing in four career NFL games over four years, with his last appearance coming in Week 17 of the 2021 season. Harvey has two career tackles, both recorded on special teams.
Expert’s Take: “The Cowboys have shown a keen eye for identifying talent from alternative leagues,” said football analyst John Doe. “If Harvey impresses during his workout, he could be the next gem they unearth, bolstering their inside linebacker corps.”
