Cowboys roster battle: Juanyeh Thomas vs Markquese Bell
The safety group for the Cowboys is very interesting.
Whether it was due to need or preference, former Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn got creative with his personnel groupings during his time there. One of the most noteworthy moves was the decision to play safety Markquese Bell at linebacker and have him there full-time over the last season.
With Mike Zimmer now in the fold, it’s been reported that Bell is going back to his more natural position of safety, and with that comes an intriguing battle for the Cowboys’ safety No. 3 spot with Juanyeh Thomas. Both players provide interesting traits and abilities to work with, and while it may not be at the top of everyone’s mind, it may be one of the more interesting battles of training camp.
Cowboys’ safety battle
Bell was a huge part of the linebacker equation last season, and while he was outmatched at times, he certainly rose to the occasion and impressed in a tough situation. However, as we turn the page to 2024 and with Jayron Kearse still unsigned, Bell is now in the mix at safety fighting for the third spot behind starters Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson.
Markquese Bell was a pleasant surprise at LB for the #DallasCowboys last season, however, the belief is under new DC Mike Zimmer he will go back to his more natural position of Safety.
— Tony Catalina (@Tony_Catalina) February 29, 2024
Looks like the groundwork is being laid early in the offseason.
( : _rockofficial on IG) pic.twitter.com/om7iZ5cJ8E
Bell brings the willingness to play down in the box and stop the run, as evidenced by his LB reps from last season. However, limiting that much run game exposure while also being able to show his range in pass defense carrying TEs, and RBs down the field in coverage will allow for him to play a more suitable role.
With a new man in charge, and a new year to focus on, Bell will need to impress Zimmer as he makes the change back to safety, but there is no reason to believe that it can’t be a smooth transition for him. Where things could go astray for Bell in his pursuit of substantial playing time lies with his teammate Juanyeh Thomas and his ability to swoop in and snatch the role.
Thomas doesn’t have the same amount of live action that Bell does as he didn’t play nearly as many reps on defense as Bell did last year. However, what he does have on his side is a more seamless transition into a Mike Zimmer defense without having to re-learn a position like Bell needs to do.
My latest for BTB is a case for why 2024 could be a big year for @STG_Yeh1.
— Tony Catalina (@Tony_Catalina) May 21, 2024
Talent meets timing. https://t.co/3PQm4SYINI
The prior coaching staff had taken a liking to Thomas, and heading into his third season with some familiar pieces in place he boasts enough upside and potential to be excited about if given a chance to compete for the role. His ability to be a hard-nose tackler, unafraid to be physical while also being able to carry pass catchers down the field is something the Cowboys may want to see more of in addition to his special team responsibilities.
Nothing is settled here, and just because Bell played extensively at linebacker for Quinn doesn’t mean much when it comes to the third safety spot this year for Zimmer’s group. With so much unknown still present, this battle between two young and talented defenders is going to be a storyline worth watching when Dallas gets to Oxnard.
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