Following an offseason that began with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, the team has shifted its focus to making strategic additions within the resources available. As they gear up for training camp in late July, the Cowboys are concentrating on finalizing their 90-man roster.
One of the potential new additions is St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr., who has been scheduled for a workout with the team.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey emerged as one of the standout performers in the United Football League (UFL). He led the league with 78 total tackles during its 10-game season. In addition, he topped all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). His impressive performance earned him one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots on the UFL's inaugural All-League team.
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.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have shown a knack for finding 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. Last season, the Cowboys added Brandon Aubrey, a kicker from the USFL. Aubrey set an NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35). He also tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35). Additionally, Aubrey set the record for the most touchbacks on kickoffs in a single season (99), earning first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2023.
The Potential Impact of Harvey
Given Dallas's 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 he has the potential to become a regular starter or provide valuable depth to the team. Harvey's ability to lead in tackles, tackles for loss, passes defended, and forced fumbles indicates that he could bring a dynamic presence to the Cowboys' defensive unit.
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."
With training camp approaching, McCarthy and the Cowboys' management are leaving no stone unturned, continuing to explore opportunities to reinforce the roster. Harvey's potential signing is an indication of the team's proactive approach. Whether he joins the ranks or not, it is clear that the Cowboys are preparing meticulously to build on their offseason ambitions and are determined to enter the new season well-equipped and resilient.
In conclusion, as the Dallas Cowboys aim to solidify their squad for the upcoming season, the potential addition of Willie Harvey Jr. exemplifies the team's strategy of leveraging talent from lesser-known leagues. Harvey’s remarkable performance in the UFL has put him on the Cowboys' radar, and if his past is any indicator, he might just be the next alternative league star to shine bright in the NFL.