Cowboys Sign Carl Lawson from Jets

The Dallas Cowboys have officially signed former New York Jets defensive end Carl Lawson, as confirmed by a source to ESPN on Thursday. This move marks the Cowboys' second addition to their defensive line in just two days, following a trade with the New York Giants for defensive tackle Jordan Phillips. The Cowboys sought to bolster their defensive front after losing pass rusher Sam Williams to a torn ACL during early training camp practices. Lawson, 29, had previously worked out with the Cowboys in Oxnard, California, but the team opted to sign Al-Quadin Muhammad and Shaka Toney instead. However, Toney has since been waived due to a groin injury, prompting the Cowboys to revisit Lawson as a potential addition. Lawson's career has been marked by injuries, including a significant Achilles tendon rupture in 2021 that sidelined him for an entire season. Despite being signed to a lucrative three-year, $45 million contract with the Jets in 2021, Lawson struggled to meet expectations, playing only 23 games over three seasons. He managed to return for the 2022 season, recording seven sacks, but faced challenges in 2023, missing most of the preseason due to a back injury and losing his starting position to Jermaine Johnson. Frustrated by his limited role, Lawson expressed his desire to contribute more, stating, "I'm a football player, not a cheerleader." Lawson previously enjoyed success as a pass rusher with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he recorded 20 sacks in four seasons. His familiarity with Cowboys run game coordinator Paul Guenther from his time in Cincinnati may aid in his transition to Dallas.