Following an offseason that started with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, their approach has shifted to making strategic additions with the resources available. The Cowboys are now focusing on finalizing their 90-man roster as they gear up for training camp in late July.
The team has scheduled a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr., a move that signifies their earnest efforts to bolster the squad ahead of the impending season.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey emerged as one of the standout performers in the United Football League (UFL). He led the league with 78 total tackles during its 10-game season. Additionally, Harvey topped all UFL linebackers in several critical metrics, including tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). His outstanding 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. The linebacker went undrafted out of Iowa State in 2019 but was picked up by the Cleveland Browns. He oscillated between the Browns' practice squad and 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 managed to make 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 discovering 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 earned 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) and tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35). Additionally, Aubrey set the record for the most touchbacks on kickoffs in a single season (99), earning 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 to the roster. Harvey's dynamic play and proven ability to lead and perform under pressure could be precisely what the Dallas defense needs as they prepare for the upcoming season.
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 stated. "We're never done. I actually just met with vice president of player personnel Will McClay for quite some time this morning. We’ve got plenty of really good players to practice and get ready. We were at 88 this time last year." McCarthy's words underscore the team's proactive approach and continued vigilance in scouting and acquiring potential impact players, no matter where they come from.
As the Cowboys inch closer to training camp, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these strategic additions, including the potential signing of Willie Harvey Jr., will shape the roster and prepare the team for another competitive season. Engaging in workouts with standout players from alternative leagues indicates that the Cowboys are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to build a championship-caliber team.
With a track record of turning alternative league standouts into NFL stars, the Cowboys' interest in Harvey is not merely a token gesture but a well-considered move to potentially add a significant contributor to their lineup. As training camp approaches, the Dallas Cowboys continue to make calculated decisions, aiming to create a roster poised for success in the upcoming NFL season.