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I would argue that in the recent past DeMarcus Lawrence was the Cowboys' defensive leader, but watching this year's defense, I cannot definitively say who the leader is now. I'm not suggesting there isn't anyone stepping up, but who is the voice, or voices, of the defense that everyone listens to? – Kyle Roddy/Tyler, TX
Patrik: To answer this, you must first state your definition of what a leader is or might be. Some lead quietly and through action, such as DaRon Bland, and others are extremely vocal, such as DeMarcus Lawrence. I will say it's difficult to figure out who the latter type might be in 2025, that's for sure, but I can tell you who it's about to be: DeMarvion Overshown. The young linebacker is a stick of dynamite with both his play and in how vocal is he in the locker room, the huddle and on the field of play. So I won't say nobody's stepping up, because guys are what they are and aren't what they aren't — vocal vs. non-vocal — with plenty leading in their own way. But the mouthpiece of the defense returned to practice this week and will soon be on the field again.
Tommy: My pick right now is Osa Odighizuwa. I think he's a good example of leadership not necessarily having to be a big "rah-rah" type of deal, and can be more of a look at me and how I do things, and follow along. Everyone's leadership style is different. I think Osa has a good command for that, and that's why he was named a captain this year. I also think that Kenny Clark has quickly emerged as a leader of the group too, which the Cowboys certainly have to be pleased with considering he joined the team two months ago and is already having an impact on the locker room because of his experiences as a veteran.
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