Following an offseason that began with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, their strategy has shifted towards making strategic additions with the resources available.
As the team gears up for training camp in late July, the Cowboys are now focusing on finalizing their 90-man roster. One of their recent 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). During the league’s 10-game season, he led in total tackles with 78, showcasing his defensive prowess. His stellar performance extended across multiple categories including tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). This impressive display earned Harvey 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. Despite going undrafted out of Iowa State in 2019, his talent was recognized by the Cleveland Browns who picked him up shortly after the draft. Harvey oscillated between the Browns' practice squad and active roster, appearing in four NFL games. His last NFL appearance was during the 2021 season in Cleveland's Week 17 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he recorded a tackle.
Despite the limited opportunities, Harvey managed to leave his mark on special teams, recording two tackles across his four-game NFL career. His persistence and determination have driven him to seize every opportunity that comes his way, leading to his standout performance in the UFL.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have shown a keen ability to identify and cultivate talent from alternative leagues. In 2022, they signed KaVontae Turpin, a wide receiver and return specialist who had earned MVP honors in the USFL. Turpin’s transition to the NFL was notably successful, as he earned Pro Bowl honors as a rookie.
Continuing this trend, the Cowboys added kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL last season. Aubrey's performance was historic as he set the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35) and tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35). Additionally, he set the record for the most touchbacks on kickoffs in a single season (99). His incredible performance earned him first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2023.
The Potential Impact of Harvey
Given the Cowboys’ track record of success with players from alternative leagues, Willie Harvey Jr. could be poised to make a significant impact should the team decide to sign him. His UFL performance suggests potential not only as a regular starter but also as a valuable depth asset. His ability to lead in tackles, defend passes, and force turnovers makes him a versatile player who could address several needs for the Cowboys’ defense.
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 remarked. "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."
McCarthy’s comments underscore the proactive and ongoing effort to fine-tune the roster, continuously searching for talent that can contribute to the team’s success. The potential addition of Willie Harvey Jr. fits into this strategic approach, offering an opportunity to bolster the linebacker corps with a player who has demonstrated significant promise.
As training camp approaches, the Cowboys’ ability to integrate and maximize the talents of players like Harvey could play a crucial role in shaping their upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this latest move in the team’s strategic additions will yield another success story from the alternative leagues.