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NFL Stunned: Cowboys on Verge of Signing $94 Million All-Pro LB to Stop Their Run Defense Meltdown!

Posted on June 18, 2025 - 2:04 am by

The Dallas Cowboys’ defense was a disaster in 2024, and the numbers don’t lie. Ranking 28th overall in team defense and a dismal 30th against the run, the Cowboys were among the NFL’s worst at stopping opponents on the ground. With their run defense in shambles, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox has pinpointed bolstering this unit as a top priority for Dallas this offseason. However, any significant moves to improve the defense hinge on resolving the contract situation of NFL All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons, who is poised to become the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history.

Once Parsons’ deal is settled, the Cowboys could make a splash by targeting a proven veteran to shore up their front seven. One name that stands out is five-time NFL All-Pro and free agent linebacker C.J. Mosley, whose addition could provide an immediate fix to Dallas’ porous run defense.

A Veteran Solution to a Glaring Problem

At 33 years old when the 2025 season kicks off, Mosley is no mere depth piece—he could step into a starting role for the Cowboys. This is especially critical given the uncertain status of projected starter DeMarvion Overshown, who suffered a devastating knee injury in 2024 and isn’t expected to return until at least Thanksgiving—if he plays at all this season. Mosley, who missed significant time in 2024 due to a herniated disc in his neck, was not released with a “failed physical” designation, signaling he’s likely healthy and ready to contribute, according to ESPN’s Rich Cimini.

“Once Dallas has sorted out Parsons’ situation, it should seek additional help for a run defense that ranked 30th in yards per carry allowed last season,” Knox wrote on June 17. “Players like C.J. Mosley and Raekwon Davis could help strengthen the depth of Dallas’ front seven.”

Mosley’s Proven Pedigree

C.J. Mosley is no stranger to elite performance. A two-time All-American and two-time BCS National Champion at Alabama, Mosley won the Butkus Award as the nation’s top linebacker in 2013. Selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the first round (No. 17 overall) of the 2014 NFL draft, he quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier inside linebackers, earning All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in four of his first five seasons.

In 2019, Mosley signed a massive five-year, $85 million contract with the New York Jets. Unfortunately, his tenure in New York was marred by injuries and disruptions, including missing all but two games in 2019 due to groin surgery and opting out of the 2020 season due to the pandemic. Despite these setbacks, Mosley rebounded impressively, recording at least 150 tackles in each season from 2021 to 2023 and earning his fifth All-Pro and Pro Bowl nod. However, injuries limited him to just four games in 2024, where he battled toe and neck issues.

With approximately $94 million in career earnings through 2024, Mosley remains a highly sought-after free agent who could deliver one more impactful season for a Cowboys team desperate to fix its defensive woes.

Cowboys’ Linebacker Moves Fall Short

Dallas has already taken steps to address their linebacker corps this offseason, but the results have been underwhelming. The team traded for former first-round pick Kenneth Murray Jr. and signed Jack Sanborn to a one-year, $1.5 million deal. Neither player has inspired much confidence, leaving a glaring need for a proven veteran like Mosley to anchor the unit.

If the Cowboys can secure Mosley, they’d gain a battle-tested leader capable of plugging gaps against the run and stabilizing a defense that crumbled in 2024. With Parsons’ contract looming as the top priority, Dallas must act swiftly to lock in a player of Mosley’s caliber before other teams come calling.

A Potential Game-Changer

Signing C.J. Mosley could be the move that turns around Dallas’ run defense meltdown. His experience, tackling prowess, and ability to command the middle of the field would provide an immediate upgrade to a unit that desperately needs it. As the Cowboys navigate the Parsons contract saga, adding a player of Mosley’s pedigree could send shockwaves through the NFL and signal Dallas’ intent to reclaim their defensive dominance in 2025.