3 Dallas Cowboys primed for breakout seasons in 2020
By Randy Gurzi
3. Jourdan Lewis, Cornerback
One player who can really benefit from the change in defensive coaching is cornerback Jourdan Lewis. A third-round pick out of Michigan in 2017, Lewis was a bit of a steal for the Cowboys as he slipped in the draft due to an ongoing domestic violence investigation. That ended up being thrown out and Dallas landed a player some thought had first-round talent late on day two.
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As a rookie, Lewis started seven games for the Cowboys and recorded 54 tackles, 10 pass defenses and an interception. He had some rough outings, which can be expected from any rookie but overall he showed a lot of promise.
Then in 2018, the team hired Kris Richard to coach their defensive backs. Lewis was demoted as Byron Jones moved from free safety to corner to accommodate Richard’s desire for length on the outside. Lewis, who is 5-10 and 195 pounds hardly saw the field that season. In 15 games, he had just 12 tackles but still made a game-sealing interception when he blanketed Alvin Kamara in a huge win over the Saints.
Richard promptly sent Lewis back to the bench after that game but had to rely on him again in 2019 when Anthony Brown was injured. Lewis responded with another solid season, picking off two passes while also recording an impressive four sacks as he showed he can be used to blitz the quarterback.
Now with Richard gone and Byron Jones in Miami, Lewis is in line to start full-time — unless something changes in the draft. With a new defensive staff — and a better defensive line that could force the ball out quicker — Lewis could make the most of his instincts and ball skills. Don’t be surprised if he has a big season in 2020 should he finally get his chance to shine.