Following an offseason that started with high expectations for the Dallas Cowboys, their approach has shifted to 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. As part of this strategy, the team has scheduled 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). He led the league with 78 total tackles during its 10-game season. In addition to this impressive tally, he led all UFL linebackers in tackles for loss (nine), passes defended (six), and forced fumbles (two). His consistent 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.
Despite limited opportunities, Harvey managed to make his mark on special teams, recording two tackles in his four-game NFL career. His resilience and tenacity have continually driven him forward, culminating in his standout season with the Battlehawks.
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's debut season was stellar, earning him 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) and tied for the second-most successful field goals in a single season without a miss (35). He also 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 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 skill set and work ethic align well with the Cowboys’ needs as they look to bolster their linebacking corps ahead of the new season.
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," remarked McCarthy. "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."
McCarthy's comments reflect an ongoing dedication to maintaining and enhancing the team's roster, ensuring that the Cowboys remain competitive. With training camp on the horizon, the addition of players like Harvey could be pivotal as the Cowboys aim to realize their high expectations for the upcoming season.
As the countdown to training camp continues, the focus will be on integrating new additions, assessing their impact, and preparing the roster for the challenges ahead. For Willie Harvey Jr., this could be the opportunity to convert his UFL success into a lasting NFL career, adding another chapter to his compelling journey through professional football.