Dallas Cowboys: 3 Standouts at OTAs for 2019

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – NOVEMBER 6: Sam Bradford #8 of the Minnesota Vikings is tackled by Kerry Hyder #61 of the Detroit Lions of the game on November 6, 2016 at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /

2. Kerry Hyder, Defensive End

After a slow start to the offseason, Dallas started to make some moves. They landed receiver Randall Cobb and defensive end Robert Quinn, both who are expected to be big contributors in 2019. They also brought in safety George Iloka, who will battle Jeff Heath for the starting strong safety position this year.

Lost in those signings was the move that came first, the signing of defensive end Kerry Hyder Jr. A former member of the Detroit Lions, Hyder has been working on the left side of the defensive line as DeMarcus Lawrence recovers from shoulder surgery. So far, he’s been making the most of that opportunity and has drawn praise from defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli, who appreciates the toughness he brings (per DallasCowboys.com).

Hyder had a breakout season playing left end for the Lions in 2016. He finished that campaign with 36 tackles and eight sacks, but then tore his Achilles during the 2017 preseason. He re-joined Detroit last year but didn’t feel like a great fit with Matt Patricia’s defense as he played in just seven games and had six tackles and a sack.

Now with a chance to restart his career, Hyder is making the most of his opportunities. Listed at 6-2 and 270 pounds, he’s also able to slide inside and play some defensive tackle — which is something that really appeals to Marinelli. Dallas re-tooled the line this offseason, and Hyder is making sure to do his part to make their work in that area a success.

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