The Dallas Cowboys are in a tricky situation as they navigate the free agency landscape. With the recent trade of Maxx Crosby to the Ravens, the team is now turning their attention to edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, who was reportedly their 'fallback' option. However, there's another player who could be a more suitable fit for the Cowboys' defense: Boye Mafe, an edge rusher from the Seattle Seahawks.
Hendrickson is a proven commodity, having amassed 14+ sacks in three of his five years with the Bengals. His production and contract (a $60 million deal) make him an attractive option, but there are some concerns. Hendrickson's age (270 pounds) doesn't align with the Cowboys' new defensive scheme, and he hasn't shown the same comfort in coverage as Mafe. Additionally, Hendrickson's recent season-ending injury raises questions about his durability.
Mafe, on the other hand, is a rising star. He's only 24 years old and has been a key player in the Seahawks' defense, operating in a 3-4 hybrid front. Mafe's athleticism is impressive, with a 0.84-second get-off and a 2.76-second time to pressure, both of which are among the top 12 among edge rushers. His pressure rate of 13.2% and pass rush win rate of 12.2% are also noteworthy.
What makes Mafe even more appealing is his versatility. He's capable of dropping into coverage, a skill that the Cowboys' new defensive coordinator, Mike Macdonald, has emphasized. Mafe's experience in this role, with 176 coverage snaps in his four-year career, gives him an edge over Hendrickson, who has only 176 coverage snaps in his nine-year career.
Furthermore, Mafe's body type is a better fit for the Cowboys' scheme. He's a more standard outside linebacker, and his age (four years younger than Hendrickson) suggests a longer career ahead. Mafe's injury history is also less concerning, with only three missed games in his young career.
In conclusion, while both Hendrickson and Mafe are talented edge rushers, Mafe represents a more natural fit for the Cowboys' defense. His athleticism, versatility, and age make him a valuable addition to the roster, and his potential for long-term success is a compelling argument for the Cowboys to prioritize him over Hendrickson.
