With the NFC East seemingly in turmoil (Philadelphia is in shambles, Washington is starting over, the Giants are having all kinds of problems), the Cowboys can counter a similar offensive style. Doesn't it seem like we need to build a defense? The 49ers and Packers too? These systems seem to beat us healthily every year. The 1990s team wasn't built just for the division. What do you think? – Brian Jones/Magnolia, Texas
Nick Harris: Agree. There are obvious benefits to attacking weaknesses throughout the offseason, and defensively, it's clear that stopping the run and losing physically in key games (49ers, Bills, Packers) was a weakness. is. If the offseason approach focuses on strengthening the defensive side of the ball and putting more effort into the spine of the defense (defensive tackles, linebackers, safeties), the Cowboys will be able to improve their regular-league and regular-league Both will better prepare you to compete with the NFC's elite. season and playoffs. As for the department, I think it goes hand in hand. If you're preparing to beat the NFC's elite, you're also preparing to beat your own division.
Mickey: I don't know if the Cowboys consciously designed their defense just to play against the NFC East. If you think about it, is what San Francisco and Green Bay did the same as what was done against Buffalo and Seattle? The Cowboys need to improve their starting run defense and, in doing so, strengthen the linebacker position, especially if Leighton Vander Esch decides to retire. They also need more depth at the cornerback position, but that's assuming Trevon Diggs is healthy and ready to go. Remember, Stephon Gilmore and Jordan Lewis will become unrestricted free agents on March 13th. For me, it's more about improving our personnel than our defensive style.
