Following an offseason that began with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, their strategy has now shifted to making strategic additions with the resources available.
The Cowboys are focusing on finalizing their 90-man roster as they gear up for training camp in late July. One notable potential addition is St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr., who is scheduled for a workout with the team.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey has emerged as a standout performer in the United Football League (UFL). During the league's 10-game season, he led with 78 total tackles. Harvey also topped all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two).
His exceptional performance earned him one of the three coveted inside linebacker spots on the UFL's inaugural All-League team. This showcases Harvey's ability to excel and be recognized as a top player in a competitive environment.
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 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 kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL. Aubrey set the NFL record for the most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35), 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). He earned 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 to the team.
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."
The Cowboys' approach under Coach McCarthy and the scouting acumen of Will McClay suggests they are determined to leave no stone unturned in finding the right talent. As the Cowboys prepare for training camp, the possible addition of Willie Harvey Jr. brings hope that they may yet uncover another gem from an alternative league.