Following an offseason that started with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, their approach has shifted to making strategic additions with the resources available. The Cowboys are now focusing on finalizing their 90-man roster as they gear up for training camp in late July. A key part of this strategy includes scheduled workouts with potential assets like St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey has emerged as one of the standout performers in the United Football League (UFL), which has not gone unnoticed by NFL scouts. During the UFL's 10-game season, Harvey led the league with an impressive 78 total tackles. Furthermore, he led all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). Such all-around defensive prowess earned him one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots on the UFL's inaugural All-League team, marking him as a talent to watch.
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 picked up by the Cleveland Browns. He 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. This demonstrates his capability to contribute in various capacities on the field.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have shown a knack for finding talent in alternative leagues, which bodes well for Harvey's chances. 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. Last season, the Cowboys added kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL, who set the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35). Aubrey also 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). His 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 provide valuable depth. With his skill set and versatility, Harvey could be a valuable addition to the Cowboys' defense, either as part of the starting lineup or as a rotational player who can contribute on special teams.
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 said. "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 a proactive approach to roster management, keeping the door open for potential new talent like Harvey.
As the Cowboys prepare for the rigorous demands of training camp, the inclusion of a player like Harvey could bolster their defensive lineup and provide additional options for the coaching staff. With a history of successful signings from alternative leagues, Dallas appears well-positioned to make another savvy addition with Willie Harvey Jr.