Cowboys’ Kenneth Murray Trade Backfires as Linebacker Struggles Continue

The Dallas Cowboys’ mid-season trade for linebacker Logan Wilson sent a clear message. It highlighted the failed experiment of acquiring Kenneth Murray Jr. earlier this year. Murray has struggled significantly since joining the team.Jerry Jones’ move for Wilson was a direct response to poor defensive performance. According to ESPN, the Cowboys’ run defense has been a persistent weakness. Murray’s role has diminished rapidly following the new arrival.

Statistical Evidence Shows Defensive Liability

Murray’s on-field production tells a worrying story. Through 12 starts, he has recorded 70 tackles and one sack. However, advanced metrics reveal a deeper problem.His performance grades are among the worst in the league for his position. Pro Football Focus data places him 79th out of 83 qualified linebackers overall. His run-defense grade is reportedly the absolute lowest.This poor performance forced the Cowboys to seek an upgrade. The team could no longer rely on Murray as a starter. His declining snap count proves the coaching staff agrees.

New Acquisitions Reshape Linebacker Corps

The arrivals of Logan Wilson and the return of DeMarvion Overshown have changed everything. Dallas now has viable alternatives to anchor the middle of the defense. Murray has been quickly phased out as a result.In the crucial win over the Philadelphia Eagles, Murray saw his snap share cut dramatically. He played just 39 defensive snaps. Against the Kansas City Chiefs, Overshown and Wilson both played more.This new pecking order appears permanent. The Cowboys are moving on from their preseason gamble. The defense aims to improve with its new lineup.

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The Kenneth Murray trade has proven to be a misstep for the Dallas front office. His rapid decline and replacement underscore the constant pressure to win now. The team’s playoff hopes now rest on its new defensive look.

Info at your fingertips

Who did the Cowboys trade for at the deadline?

The Cowboys acquired linebacker Logan Wilson from the Cincinnati Bengals. They also made a major move for defensive tackle Quinnen Williams. These deals aimed to immediately bolster a struggling defense.

What were Kenneth Murray’s stats with the Cowboys?

Murray recorded 70 tackles, one sack, and two pass deflections in 12 games. His underlying performance grades, however, were very poor. Analytics showed he was a major liability against the run.

Why is DeMarvion Overshown significant?

Overshown is a promising young linebacker returning from a major knee injury. His return provided the Cowboys with another internal option. He has already taken a leading snap share over Murray.

How has the linebacker snap count changed?

Murray played nearly every snap before the bye week. After the Wilson trade, his snap percentage dropped below 50%. Overshown and Wilson now lead the rotation.

What does this mean for the Cowboys’ defense?

The team is clearly trying to upgrade its athleticism and tackling in the middle. Moving on from Murray is part of that correction. The success of Wilson and Overshown is critical for a playoff push.