Following an offseason that began with high expectations, the Dallas Cowboys have shifted their approach to strategic additions, focusing on finalizing their 90-man roster as they gear up for training camp in late July. One of their latest moves includes scheduling a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr., a standout performer from the United Football League (UFL).
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Willie Harvey Jr. emerged as one of the standout performers in the UFL, leading the league with 78 total tackles during its 10-game season. His impressive stats didn't end there; Harvey also topped the charts for UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). Such stellar performances earned him one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots on the UFL's inaugural All-League team.
A Journey of Persistence
Harvey's path to professional football has been anything but smooth. Undrafted out of Iowa State in 2019, he 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.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have demonstrated a knack for finding talent in alternative leagues. In 2022, they signed KaVontae Turpin, a standout 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. Aubrey set the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35). Additionally, 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 earned first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2023.
The Potential Impact of Harvey
Given the Cowboys' 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 to the roster.
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."
As the Cowboys continue to fine-tune their roster, the addition of a player like Willie Harvey Jr. could prove to be another savvy move, strengthening their lineup for the upcoming season. With a blend of seasoned talent and emerging stars, Dallas aims to build a team capable of fulfilling the high expectations set at the start of this offseason. As they move closer to training camp, all eyes will be on how these new players integrate and perform, potentially setting the stage for a successful season ahead.