:no_upscale()/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/dmn/4BRVLJC6AAQORCYTQYPW4MFNKM.jpg)
The Dallas Cowboys add a big-time pass rusher.
The Cowboys and Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen have agreed a one-year deal, a source said The Dallas Morning News’ Michael Gehlken Wednesday night. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network first reports the news.
Cowboys have reached a contract with former Vikings edge rusher Everson Griffen, confirms source. Enormous development at turning position on defensive line. Griffen joins group with DeMarcus Lawrence and Aldon Smith. NFL Network reported first deal.
– Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) August 13, 2020
New Cowboys DE Everson Griffen have agreed to a one-year contract, source said. That he will position himself to produce and cash free agency in 2021. Otherwise, no performance talks in contract. Deal has roster bonuses.
– Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) August 13, 2020
Griffen collected 741/2 sacks in his 10 seasons with the Vikings. He had eight last season and has had no less than 51/2 sacks in one of his last eight seasons.
The Cowboys had hoped to retain Robert Quinn, who led the team last season with 11 1/2 sacks. His departure to Chicago left a hole in the Cowboys’ defensive front. One that Griffen will fill.
He now joins a defensive line led by DeMarcus Lawrence and Aldon Smith.
SportsDay contestant John Owning recently wrote about why Griffen would be a good fit for the Cowboys. Here is what he had to say about him:
‘While many Cowboys Nation fantasize about Jadeveon Clowney playing with a star on his helmet, Everson Griffen is actually a much better value on the open market.
“Griffen is older – that shouldn’t mean much, as both players are likely to sign one-year deals at this stage of free agency – and have less impact on the run than Clowney; however, he is less of an injury risk, cheaper and a much, much better pass-rusher, which is much more valuable in the current NFL.
“If you do not believe me, just go back and watch Griffen’s performance against the Cowboys and Tyron Smith in Week 10. Griffen finished with seven pressure and a sack, all but two pressure came against Smith …
“By signing Griffen, the Cowboys would have the leading pass-rush duo in the NFL to go with one of the deepest depth charts in terms of edge-rushing ability.”
More to come over this development story.
:no_upscale()/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/dmn/ZGZOX6EBKJFMDDI5QGXND35SUY.jpg?resize=380%2C285&ssl=1)
Find more Cowboys stories from The Dallas Morning News here.
