Cowboys News: Early impressions of the linebacker and cornerback positions under Mike Zimmer’s guidance are extremely positive. Rookie CB has promised a tough season for opposing quarterbacks after his stellar Week 1 performance.
Rookie Caelen Carson has emerged as a surprise starter for the Cowboys, filling in for DaRon Bland. In his NFL debut, Carson lived up to his college reputation from Wake Forest, playing a key role in limiting the Browns’ passing game during the Cowboys’ 33-17 victory. The Dallas defense held Cleveland’s Deshaun Watson to just 3.75 yards per attempt and a 51.1 passer rating, an impressive feat for a fifth-round rookie making his first appearance.
“Honestly, I didn’t know how the first game was going to go,” Carson said postgame, “but I knew one thing: I wasn’t going to come in here scared.” Carson held his own against five-time Pro Bowler Amari Cooper, limiting the former Cowboy to just 16 yards and breaking up two passes—equal to the number of catches he allowed Cooper. He also nearly intercepted two passes.
“I didn’t capitalize on my opportunities today,” Carson admitted. “I think I played okay, but I’ve got to capitalize on the opportunities. That’s the biggest thing with a Cowboys defense—turnovers.”
The Cowboys also have another emerging defensive star in linebacker DeMarvion Overshown. After a long-awaited debut, Overshown shined with 11 tackles, six stops, one sack, and two quarterback pressures. His sack of Deshaun Watson displayed his elite closing speed, leaving the quarterback stunned.
“As soon as he [Watson] broke the pocket, he was mine,” Overshown said, according to Cowboys reporter Patrik Walker. “He thought he was gonna be able to get a throw off when he saw me but it was too late. I had him.” Alongside speed, Overshown also showcased impressive strength, particularly in his run defense.
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