Easton Stick #2 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs with the ball while being tackled by Linval Joseph #93 and Taylor Rapp #20 of the Buffalo Bills
The Dallas Cowboys are bolstering their defense with a seasoned addition just before the 2024 season kicks off. After 14 years in the NFL and five different stops along the way, defensive tackle Linval Joseph is heading to Cowboys Stadium. The signing was first reported on August 21 by NFL insider Josina Anderson.
Joseph, a free agent throughout the offseason, will now bring his talents to Dallas.
“Breaking: I’m told the #Cowboys are signing DT Linval Joseph, per source,” Anderson announced via X.
The move comes shortly after Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer expressed the need for depth at the nose tackle position. Joseph, once a dominant force during his prime under Zimmer’s coaching with the Minnesota Vikings, will now reunite with his former coach in Dallas.
At nearly 36 years old, Joseph’s recent stint with the Buffalo Bills didn’t pan out as hoped, but the Cowboys likely won’t require him to play a prominent role. Instead, he is expected to take on a rotational role, providing a fresh presence in the defensive interior.
Linval Joseph’s Storied Career
Joseph had some of his best years with the Minnesota Vikings, where he was a key figure in a defense loaded with talent. In 2016, Joseph recorded an impressive 77 tackles, including 5 tackles for loss and 4 sacks. The following season, he continued his strong play with 68 tackles, 5 TFLs, and 3.5 sacks, according to Pro Football Reference.
Though Joseph’s production has waned in recent years, his impact on the field was undeniable at his peak, particularly during his tenure under Zimmer. However, over the past two seasons, his role diminished. While he started 11 games for the Philadelphia Eagles, Joseph struggled to replicate his earlier success. With the Bills, his playing time further decreased, appearing in seven games but starting none and playing just 35% of defensive snaps.
Cowboys Seek Defensive Line Depth
Joseph’s signing addresses a need that Zimmer publicly acknowledged just days ago. On August 14, Zimmer praised young Cowboys defensive tackle Mazi Smith but noted the need for additional support at the position.
“Mazi has done a good job in there. We have got to find some more noses obviously, see how these young guys do,” Zimmer said.
The Cowboys’ depth chart revealed the glaring need, listing no second-string nose tackle and only a third-string option in Justin Rogers. Joseph’s arrival should provide immediate support while also giving the Cowboys’ younger players, like Smith, an experienced mentor.
As the Cowboys prepare for the 2024 season, Joseph’s addition could provide the defense with a key piece, combining veteran experience with a renewed opportunity to make an impact in Dallas.
