Following an offseason that commenced with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, the team's strategy has shifted to making strategic additions with the resources available. The Cowboys are now focused on finalizing their 90-man roster as they gear up for training camp in late July.
The organization has scheduled a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr., a player who has turned heads with his impressive performance in the United Football League (UFL).
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey has emerged as one of the standout performers in the United Football League. During the league's 10-game season, he led the league with a remarkable 78 total tackles. In addition to his tackling prowess, Harvey led all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two).
His exceptional performance earned him a place on the UFL's inaugural All-League team, securing one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots. Harvey's ability to impact various facets of the game highlights his potential to contribute significantly at the NFL level.
A Journey of Persistence
Harvey's journey to professional football has been anything but smooth. The linebacker went undrafted out of Iowa State in 2019 but was subsequently picked up by the Cleveland Browns. Harvey oscillated between the Browns' practice squad and active roster, appearing in four NFL games.
His last NFL appearance came during the 2021 season when he recorded a tackle in Cleveland's Week 17 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite limited opportunities, Harvey managed to make his mark on special teams, recording two tackles in his four-game NFL career.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have shown a knack for unearthing talent in alternative leagues. In 2022, they signed KaVontae Turpin, a wide receiver and return man who had earned MVP honors in the USFL. Turpin went on to earn Pro Bowl honors as a rookie, validating the Cowboys' eye for talent.
Last season, the Cowboys added kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL. Aubrey set the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35). He tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35) and set the record for the most touchbacks on kickoffs in a single season (99). Aubrey's stellar performance earned him first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2023.
The Potential Impact of Harvey
Given this track record of success with players from alternative leagues, it wouldn't be surprising if Willie Harvey Jr. made a significant impact should the Cowboys decide to sign him. His UFL performance suggests that he has the potential to become a regular starter or at the very least, provide valuable depth to the linebacker corps.
Harvey's aggressive playstyle, combined with his ability to make impactful plays in both defense and special teams, aligns well with the Cowboys' needs. His addition could bolster a team that is always looking for ways to improve and compete at the highest level.
Coach McCarthy's Perspective
Coach Mike McCarthy has consistently emphasized the team's commitment to improving the roster. "I think it's just kind of where we are," McCarthy stated. "We're never done. I actually just met with (vice president of player personnel) Will (McClay) for quite some time this morning. We got plenty of really good players to practice and get ready. We were at 88 this time last year."
McCarthy's words reflect the team's ongoing efforts to refine their roster and ensure they have the best possible lineup heading into the season. The potential addition of Willie Harvey Jr. is just one part of that larger strategy of continual improvement and adaptation.
As the Cowboys prepare for training camp, all eyes will be on the new recruits and how they integrate into the team's dynamics. With the right moves, the team hopes to meet the high expectations set at the beginning of the offseason and make a strong push in the upcoming season.