The Dallas Cowboys entered the offseason with high expectations, aiming to bolster their squad with strategic additions. As they now shift focus towards finalizing their 90-man roster ahead of training camp in late July, the Cowboys have scheduled a workout with St. Louis Battlehawks linebacker Willie Harvey Jr.
Willie Harvey Jr.'s Impressive UFL Performance
Willie Harvey Jr. emerged as one of the leading performers in the United Football League (UFL) this past season. Harvey topped the league charts with 78 tackles in the 10-game season. He also led all UFL linebackers in several key defensive statistics, including 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 path to professional football has been anything but straightforward. The linebacker went undrafted out of Iowa State in 2019 but was soon picked up by the Cleveland Browns. Over the next couple of seasons, he oscillated between the Browns' practice squad and active roster, making appearances in four NFL games. His last 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 made a mark on special teams, adding to his resume with two tackles in those four games.
Dallas's History with Alternative League Talent
The Cowboys have a history of unlocking potential in players from alternative leagues. In 2022, they signed KaVontae Turpin, a wide receiver and return specialist 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 most consecutive made field goals to start a career (35) and tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35). Additionally, he 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 this track record of success with players from alternative leagues, it's not surprising that the Cowboys have shown interest in Harvey. His UFL performance suggests that he has the capability to become not just a valuable depth player but potentially a regular starter. With the Cowboys' recent history of turning alternative league talents into NFL standouts, Harvey could be the next in line to make a significant impact should the Cowboys decide to sign him.
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 stated. "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 look to finalize their roster, the addition of a player like Willie Harvey Jr. could provide a significant boost. His journey, marked by persistence and standout performances in the UFL, makes him a compelling candidate for the Cowboys as they aim to build a team capable of contending in the upcoming season.