Following an offseason that began with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, their approach has shifted to making strategic additions using 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 significant part of this preparation involves scheduling a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Harvey emerged as one of the standout performers in the United Football League (UFL). Leading the league with 78 total tackles during its 10-game season, he showcased his skills on multiple fronts. Harvey led 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, making him a desirable candidate for NFL teams looking to strengthen their defense.
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. His consistent performance in alternative leagues highlights his resilience and determination to succeed in professional football.
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 kicker Brandon Aubrey from the USFL. Aubrey set the 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) 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.
This track record of unearthing gems from alternative leagues demonstrates the Cowboys' ability to identify and develop under-the-radar talent.
The Potential Impact of Willie Harvey Jr.
Given this history 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 linebacker corps.
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 prepare for the upcoming season, the potential addition of Harvey offers a promising opportunity to bolster their defense with a proven performer. If his UFL success translates to the NFL, Harvey could be another example of the Cowboys' savvy scouting and development strategy, further cementing their reputation for capitalizing on talent from lesser-known leagues.