Cowboys’ DeMarcus Lawrence Steps into Leadership Role Following Micah Parsons’ Departure
FRISCO, TX – With Micah Parsons now with the Cardinals, the Dallas Cowboys are turning to veteran defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence to lead a retooled pass rush. Lawrence, who recorded 10.5 sacks in 2024 despite only seven starts, expressed readiness to embrace the increased responsibility, drawing on his experience as a team leader in Washington. “I was doing that in Washington when I was leading my team in sacks, so it ain’t nothing new,” Lawrence stated. “I’m definitely ready to step up. I lead by example…dominating on the field. That’s how I lead.”
lawrence will be supported by Sam Williams, James Houston, Donovan Ezeiruaku, and Marshawn Kneeland in filling the void left by Parsons.Williams, along with Lawrence, will be key in mentoring the younger players, a role Lawrence previously held during his first stint with the Cowboys. “Micah was a big leader on the field…but as far as talking to the young guys, I definitely have to step up in a way on the field-just to show them this is how you go about things,” Lawrence explained.
The Cowboys’ pass rush received a important boost with the acquisition of three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark, a move that energized Lawrence. “It broke and crushed my heart when I heard that Micah was leaving, but when I heard that we were getting Kenny Clark, I got excited,” he said. Lawrence believes clark’s presence will create more opportunities for him and the othre edge rushers. “Anytime I have an possibility to go out there and showcase who I am…I’m gonna do that. I love it, being able to have guys push the pocket and make my job way easier.”
The Cowboys’ defensive line now features a blend of experience and potential,including Lawrence,a former first-round pick,and three second-round selections: williams,houston,and Ezeiruaku. The team will be tested immediately, facing a bitter rival this Thursday night in primetime. Lawrence is confident in the group’s ability to step up and maintain a high level of performance despite Parsons’ absence.
