Cowboys’ Edge Rush Depth Faces Test Against Lions’ Offensive Tackles
FRISCO, TX – The Dallas Cowboys’ defensive line faces a critical matchup against the Detroit Lions’ offensive tackles, a contest poised to dictate the flow of Sunday’s playoff game. Dallas boasts a significantly improved and versatile edge group, while Detroit counters with a strong tackle tandem. Success in establishing the edge – both against the run and the pass – will likely be a key determinant in controlling the game’s tempo and scoring.
This battle is notably significant as the Cowboys aim to leverage their depth and strategic pass-rush deployment. Dante Fowler Jr. currently leads the team’s edge rushers with a 12% Pass Rush Win Rate. Rookie Donovan ezeiruaku has emerged as a standout performer, earning PFF’s highest grade (81.2) among first-year edge defenders. Veteran Jadeveon Clowney, whose profile aligns with the game’s demands for stout edge defense, currently holds a top-20 PFF pass-rush grade of 77.5 and a 14.9% Pass Rush Win Rate. James Houston provides a late-game pass-rush presence, allowing the Cowboys to maintain pressure without relying on excessive blitzes. Sam Williams has shown recent improvement, adding to the group’s potential.
Individual 2025 statistics highlight the contributions of key players: Fowler Jr. recorded 274 total snaps, 11 total tackles, 4 TFL, 29 pressures, 3 sacks, and 3 pass deflections. Another edge rusher accumulated 427 total snaps,30 total tackles,8 TFL,28 pressures,2 sacks,1 forced fumble,and 1 safety. A third player registered 218 total snaps,24 total tackles,5 TFL,17 pressures,5 sacks,1 forced fumble,and 1 fumble recovery.A fourth player had 243 total snaps,27 total tackles,5 TFL,26 pressures,4 sacks,1 fumble recovery,and 3 pass deflections.
The Cowboys’ defensive strategy centers on establishing stout edges to contain the run and funnel plays towards the interior, where their defensive tackles are expected to excel. Once Detroit is forced into longer down-and-distance situations,the Cowboys intend to unleash their full pass-rush capabilities.
However,the team’s plans are potentially complicated by Jadeveon Clowney’s hamstring injury,which has him listed as questionable for the game. His availability will likely be resolute during pre-game warmups.
