Dallas Cowboys 2022 Roster: Depth Chart Breakdown

Alright guys, let's dive deep into the Dallas Cowboys 2022 roster depth chart! It's that time of year when fans start dissecting every position, wondering who's starting, who's backing up, and where the team's strengths and weaknesses lie. The 2022 season was a rollercoaster, and understanding the depth chart is key to appreciating how the team navigated it. We'll break down each position group, looking at the key players, potential surprises, and how the coaching staff might have juggled things throughout the year. This isn't just about listing names; it's about understanding the why behind the lineup and the impact each player had, or could have had.

Quarterback (QB)

When we talk about the Cowboys QB situation in 2022, it's impossible not to start with Dak Prescott. Dak was the undisputed leader, and his presence under center was crucial. Despite some early-season struggles and a thumb injury that sidelined him for a bit, he remained the heart and soul of the offense. When Dak was healthy, the offense looked significantly different – more dynamic, more confident. His ability to command the huddle, make quick decisions, and deliver accurate passes was paramount. We saw flashes of his Pro Bowl form, and when he was locked in, the Cowboys' aerial attack was one of the best in the league. The backup situation was less certain. Cooper Rush stepped in admirably during Dak's absence, proving he could manage the game and keep the team competitive. Rush's performance was a huge plus, giving the Cowboys a reliable option if Dak were to miss extended time. His steady hand and understanding of the offense allowed the team to survive Dak's injury without completely falling apart. The depth at QB, while not boasting a superstar backup, was solid enough to weather a storm, which is more than many teams can say. The development of guys like Will Grier, who was brought in later, also added a layer of competition and insurance, though his impact was minimal during the regular season. Overall, the QB room was a story of a star starter and a capable backup who stepped up when needed.

Running Back (RB)

The Cowboys running back depth chart in 2022 was absolutely dominated by Tony Pollard and the emerging star, Ezekiel Elliott. For years, Zeke was the bell cow, the guy who ran between the tackles and pounded out tough yardage. While he still had his moments, 2022 saw a significant shift in the dynamic. Tony Pollard truly burst onto the scene as a legitimate dual-threat weapon. He wasn't just a change-of-pace back anymore; Pollard proved he could handle a heavier workload, catch passes out of the backfield, and break off explosive plays that changed the complexion of games. His versatility made him an indispensable part of the offense, often finding himself on the field in crucial situations. Zeke, meanwhile, embraced his role. He wasn't the same player who led the league in rushing for multiple seasons, but he was still a valuable asset, particularly in short-yardage situations and in pass protection. His veteran presence and willingness to do the dirty work were appreciated. The synergy between Pollard and Elliott was a key factor for the Cowboys' offense. They complemented each other perfectly, allowing offensive coordinator Kellen Moore to scheme up different looks and keep opposing defenses guessing. Beyond the top two, the depth was less inspiring. Guys like Rico Dowdle or Malik Davis were primarily practice squad or situational players, offering depth but not necessarily game-breaking potential. However, the strength of Pollard and the veteran savvy of Elliott meant that the RB position was a strength for Dallas in 2022, especially with Pollard's ascent.

Wide Receiver (WR)

Let's talk about the Cowboys wide receiver depth chart for 2022, which was all about one dominant force: CeeDee Lamb. After the departure of Amari Cooper, Lamb was thrust into the undisputed WR1 role, and boy, did he deliver. He became Dak Prescott's go-to target, racking up impressive numbers and showcasing elite route-running, sure hands, and the ability to gain yards after the catch. Lamb was simply sensational, proving he's a legitimate top-tier receiver in the NFL. He carried the load for much of the season, consistently making plays even when double-teamed. The rest of the WR corps, however, was a bit more of a mixed bag. Michael Gallup was expected to be the solid WR2, but injuries hampered his availability for a good chunk of the season. When he was on the field, he showed flashes of his playmaking ability, but consistency was an issue due to his health. Noah Brown emerged as a surprisingly reliable contributor, especially early in the season. He provided a physical presence and made contested catches, becoming a valuable security blanket for Dak. Jalen Tolbert, a promising rookie, had a slower start than many hoped, needing time to adjust to the NFL game. His contributions were limited, but the potential was evident. The Cowboys also utilized players like Dennis Houston and Kavontae Turpin, who brought different skill sets. Turpin, in particular, was electric as a return specialist, but his role on offense was more limited. The WR depth chart was largely defined by Lamb's excellence, with Gallup's injuries creating opportunities for others to step up, like Brown. It highlighted the importance of Lamb and the need for greater consistency and health from the other receivers moving forward.

Tight End (TE)

When we look at the Cowboys TE depth chart in 2022, Dalton Schultz was the clear headliner. Schultz solidified himself as a premier pass-catching tight end in the league. He was a massive security blanket for Dak Prescott, especially on crucial third downs. His ability to find soft spots in coverage, haul in contested passes, and even contribute as a blocker made him a vital part of the Cowboys' offensive scheme. He was a reliable option that Dak could always count on. Beyond Schultz, the depth was where things got interesting, and a bit thin. Jake Ferguson, a rookie from Wisconsin, showed a lot of promise throughout the season. He was a solid blocker and demonstrated good hands, indicating he could develop into a strong TE2 for the Cowboys in the future. Ferguson's development was a positive takeaway from the season, suggesting a bright future at the position. There were other players like Sean McKeon and Peyton Hendershot who contributed at various points, often in more of a blocking role or as situational pass-catchers. Hendershot, in particular, showed some flashes of athleticism and playmaking ability during the preseason and early in the regular season before his role diminished. The overall depth wasn't overwhelming, but the combination of Schultz's proven production and Ferguson's promising development gave the Cowboys a solid foundation at the tight end position. It was a unit that relied heavily on Schultz, but with Ferguson showing signs of becoming a significant contributor down the line, the outlook was positive.

Offensive Line (OL)

Ah, the Cowboys offensive line depth chart in 2022 – a unit that's always under the microscope! This group is the engine that drives the entire offense, and while they dealt with some bumps and bruises, they remained a formidable force. Tyron Smith, a perennial Pro Bowler, unfortunately, missed significant time due to injury, which was a huge blow. His absence meant that players like Terence Steele had to step up and seize the starting left tackle job. Steele proved to be a revelation, playing with grit and determination, and solidifying his spot as a key piece of the O-line moving forward. On the right side, Zack Martin continued to be the rock at right guard. He's arguably one of the best interior linemen in the game, consistently delivering elite-level play, mauling defenders in the run game and providing a sturdy pocket for Dak. Tyler Biadasz held down the center position, showing improvement and becoming a reliable anchor. He communicates well and holds his own against powerful defensive tackles. The guard spot opposite Martin saw some rotation, but Connor McGovern played a significant role, stepping in and providing valuable snaps. He's a versatile player who can play multiple interior positions. The depth here was tested due to injuries, but players like Josh Ball were also in the mix, gaining valuable experience. Overall, the Cowboys' offensive line in 2022 was characterized by the consistent brilliance of Zack Martin, the emergence of Terence Steele, and the steady play of Biadasz. Despite losing Tyron Smith for a large chunk of the season, the unit remained strong, showcasing good coaching and the ability of backups to step up and perform. It's a group built on toughness and experience, ready to pave the way for the running game and protect the quarterback.

Defensive Line (DL)

Let's get into the Cowboys defensive line depth chart for 2022, a unit that was absolutely stacked and a major reason for the team's success. Up front, the Cowboys boasted one of the most feared pass-rushing duos in the league: DeMarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons. Lawrence, when healthy, was a disruptive force, consistently applying pressure and getting sacks. His veteran leadership and relentless motor were invaluable. Then there's Micah Parsons. Micah Parsons was a game-changer. He exploded onto the scene as a rookie and continued his dominance in 2022, showcasing incredible versatility by playing both defensive end and linebacker. His ability to generate pressure from anywhere on the field, stuff the run, and even drop into coverage made him one of the most electrifying players in the NFL. He was a Defensive Player of the Year candidate for a reason, guys! On the interior, Osa Odighizuwa emerged as a strong presence. He flashed serious potential as a pass rusher and run stopper, showing quickness and strength. John Ridgeway, a rookie, also provided valuable snaps, adding depth and a physical presence. Quinton Bohanna was another big body who contributed to the run defense. The depth at defensive end included players like Dorance Armstrong, who had a career year in 2022, providing consistent pressure and production. Chauncey Golston also chipped in with rotational snaps. The defensive line wasn't just about the starters; the rotation was deep and effective. Players stepped up when needed, and the sheer talent level, especially with Lawrence and Parsons leading the charge, made this one of the most dominant units in the league. The constant pressure they generated had a ripple effect, making life easier for the secondary.

Linebacker (LB)

Moving on to the Cowboys linebacker depth chart in 2022, and this is where the absolute star power resides: Micah Parsons. As we mentioned in the defensive line section, Parsons' versatility meant he spent a significant amount of time playing with his hand in the dirt, but he was also a dominant force when lined up as a traditional linebacker. His sideline-to-sideline speed, incredible instincts, and raw power made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Parsons was simply a defensive anomaly, capable of single-handedly changing the outcome of games with his playmaking ability. Behind Parsons, Leighton Vander Esch had a resurgent year. After dealing with injuries in previous seasons, LVE looked like his old Pro Bowl self, patrolling the middle of the field with his usual intelligence and athleticism. He was crucial in stopping the run and covering tight ends. Anthony Barr, a veteran addition, brought a wealth of experience and physicality to the linebacker corps. He was effective in his rotational role, providing solid depth and a physical presence against the run. Damone Clark, a rookie, showed flashes of potential and gained valuable experience throughout the season, contributing to the depth. Jabril Cox, though hampered by injury, also provided depth when available. The linebacker unit was anchored by the unparalleled talent of Parsons and the revitalized play of Vander Esch. The addition of Barr provided veteran stability, and the development of younger players like Clark ensured solid depth. This was a group that could both stuff the run and provide pressure in the passing game, making them a versatile and effective unit.

Cornerback (CB)

The Cowboys cornerback depth chart in 2022 was anchored by one of the game's elite shutdown corners: Trevon Diggs. Diggs continued to prove why he's one of the most ball-hawking corners in the league, leading the NFL in interceptions for the second year in a row (or close to it, depending on the exact stat tracker). His ability to shadow opposing No. 1 receivers and come away with game-changing turnovers was invaluable. He has an uncanny knack for finding the football. Alongside Diggs, Jaron Kersey emerged as a reliable starter, often tasked with covering the opponent's No. 2 receiver. Kersey played with tenacity and improved significantly throughout the season, becoming a trusted defender. The slot cornerback position was often manned by Donovan Wilson, who, while technically a safety, often played nickel corner duties effectively due to his versatility and tackling ability. The depth at corner included players like Jourdan Lewis, who, when healthy, was a capable nickel defender known for his quickness and reliable tackling. Kelvin Joseph was a rookie who saw significant snaps, gaining valuable experience but also showing areas for development. He has the physical tools but needed to refine his technique. Trayvon Mullen was also acquired during the season and added to the mix. The cornerback group was strong at the top with Diggs' elite play, and Kersey's development provided a solid second option. The ability of players like Wilson and Lewis to slide into nickel roles added flexibility. While there were some younger players still developing, the core of the cornerback position was solid and capable of shutting down opposing passing attacks.

Safety (S)

Finally, let's look at the Cowboys safety depth chart in 2022. This was a position group that saw a lot of impact from Donovan Wilson, who, as mentioned, often played nickel corner but was fundamentally a safety. Wilson had a breakout year, proving to be an elite playmaker, especially against the run, and showing improved coverage skills. He was arguably the most consistent defender in the secondary. Jayron Kearse was another vital piece of the safety puzzle. Kearse is a big, physical safety who excels in run support and is also a capable coverage defender. He provided a veteran presence and leadership in the backend. Malik Hooker, a proven ball-hawk when healthy, was brought in and provided much-needed depth and playmaking ability. Hooker had a solid season, making crucial plays and showing he could still play at a high level. Markquese Bell, a rookie, showed promise and contributed to the depth, particularly later in the season as he got more acclimated to the NFL game. He displayed good instincts and physicality. The safety position was characterized by versatility and playmaking. Donovan Wilson's emergence as a premier defender, combined with the solid play of Kearse and the veteran presence of Hooker, gave the Cowboys a formidable group. They were crucial in helping the cornerbacks and providing support against both the pass and the run, making them a well-rounded unit that contributed significantly to the team's defensive success throughout the 2022 season.