The Dallas Cowboys have been actively seeking free agents to fill out their roster ahead of training camp. They recently signed inside linebacker Willie Harvey Jr. from the St. Louis Battlehawks of the UFL. Harvey led the UFL in total tackles, tackles for loss, passes defended, and forced fumbles during the league’s 10-game season. His standout performance earned him a spot on the UFL’s all-league team as one of the top inside linebackers.
In addition to Harvey, the Cowboys also signed defensive back Gareon Conley, a former first-round pick from Ohio State who most recently played for the UFL’s DC Defenders. Head coach Mike McCarthy expressed that the team is always looking to improve and add talent to the roster, emphasizing the importance of depth and competition in practice.
Harvey, who was undrafted in 2019 and previously played for the Cleveland Browns, has seen limited NFL action, primarily on special teams. However, the Cowboys have had success with players from the spring football league in the past. Wide receiver/return man KaVontae Turpin was signed in 2022 and earned Pro Bowl honors as a rookie, while kicker Brandon Aubrey set multiple NFL records in his first season with the team.
With a history of turning spring league signings into impactful players, the Cowboys have high hopes for Harvey. If he can showcase his talent and work ethic during training camp, he may have the opportunity to contribute as a regular starter in the upcoming season. The team’s willingness to take chances on players like Harvey demonstrates their commitment to finding hidden gems and building a competitive roster for the future.