In what has been a tumultuous year for these Dallas Cowboys, there have been a few bright spots. The most recent bright spot being highlighted by pro bowl appearances. Tyron Smith, Zack Martin and Travis Frederick have made their 4th consecutive pro bowl together, a remarkable feat for a line that is still in its prime and under 30 years old.
While those All-Pros on the offensive line are expected to make these appearances on a regular basis, it’s the Cowboys’ 4th participant that may be the stand out guy. Demarcus Lawrence will be making his first pro bowl and rightfully so.
Tank
Lawrence has either led the league or been in the top three in sacks all season long. His stats are eye-popping. He has notched 13.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, one pass defense and over 40 quarterback pressures. Statistics that are all pro worthy.
Beyond the sparkling numbers, the film doesn’t lie with Lawrence. He has been one of if not the most disruptive edge rusher this season. His ability against the run matches his ability to rush the passer. Long before he tore up the league with sacks, his calling card was setting the edge and making tackles in the backfield. With two games remaining Lawrence not only has a chance to become an all-pro if he isn’t one already, but he is in the running for defensive player of the year.
Three’s Company
The dominant trio of Smith, Martin and Frederick on the offensive line for Dallas is starting to approach all-time greatness. Each has been arguably the best at their position, with no sign of their skills diminishing. The lone worry amongst the group has been Smith’s health problems this year.
Tyron Smith has had back issues, groin issues, and now knee issues that have kept him out of games. When he plays, however, you see the dominant force he is, and why he is regarded as one of if not the best left tackle in the game.
If this group of pro bowlers can avoid the injury bug moving forward, it sets Dallas up to have anchors now on both the offense and defensive lines. While the accolades are appreciated by the players their sights are still set on something bigger, the playoffs.
“My main focus is still trying to get into these playoffs right now,” Lawrence said. “Football is an 11-man sport and that’s my main focus. I know that’s the team’s focus. Even though I’m excited, I’m still trying to make it to a Super Bowl.”
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