Following an offseason that began with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, the team's strategy has shifted towards 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. One notable development is their scheduled workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Willie Harvey Jr. 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, demonstrating his defensive prowess. Harvey was also a leader among UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). His stellar 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. During his limited time on the field, Harvey managed to make an impression 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 discovering 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 multiple records, including 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’s efforts 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. Harvey’s ability to lead in tackles, passes defended, and forced fumbles highlights his all-around skill set, making him a versatile asset for any defense.
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’ readiness to explore talent from different avenues reflects their adaptive strategy to maintain a competitive edge. Adding a player like Harvey not only adheres to this philosophy but also builds on their history of successfully integrating players from alternative leagues. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on whether Willie Harvey Jr. can bring the same level of impact to Dallas as he did in the UFL.