The Dallas Cowboys are trying to turn things around. After missing the playoffs in consecutive seasons, the franchise has rejigged the roster to make a deep run through the postseason.
Since defense was a major problem throughout last season, it has been a key area of emphasis this summer. Now, they might have added the final piece of the puzzle by signing two-time Super Bowl champion Von Miller.
Von Miller Chasing One Last Hurrah With Cowboys
A former first-round pick, Miller has already built a stellar resume in the NFL. Starting his career with the Denver Broncos, he was a perennial All-Pro candidate, earning seven selections in his first eight seasons.
However, since he moved from the Broncos to the Los Angeles Rams, and on additional pit stops with the Buffalo Bills and the Washington Commanders, his productivity has taken a hit.
While not the same game-wrecking presence he once was, he still ranked at number 61 on PFN’s EDGE Impact Metrics last season, which would be the third-highest mark on the Cowboys roster, representing a viable upgrade for Dallas.
But former NFL quarterback turned analyst, Chase Daniel, believes the move from Miller is for a specific reason. “Von Miller is RING Chasing and I’m here for it,” Daniel wrote.
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Even if going after championships is his agenda, the Cowboys are far from a sure shot in the NFC.
Discounting a loaded conference, the team ranked dead last inPFN’s Defense Impact Metrics last year. As a result, almost all of their resources this offseason, both in free agency and via the draft, went into solidifying that unit.
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The offense, with Dak Prescott, George Pickens, and CeeDee Lamb, should be near the top of the league once again. But the defense could be a work in progress given the new pieces, influx of youth, and a new system under defensive coordinator Christian Parker.
Miller could be the final piece of the puzzle as some additional depth on the defensive line. But more than his production on the field, the veteran leadership and experience he brings to the locker room and to a young unit could be invaluable for the Cowboys.
It remains to be seen if this pairing works out in the way Dallas is hoping. But as expectations continue to rise for the season, it looks like the Cowboys might have a legitimate chance to be a force in the NFC.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.