Dallas Cowboys: Ranking new additions by order of importance

6. Keanu Neal, LB/S

When word broke that Dallas was targeting Keanu Neal, it was actually rather exciting. The former Atlanta Falcons defender was not only a first-round pick, but he played safety — which is a position this front office has criminally ignored.

Of course, the questions started to emerge as Neal proved to be more of an “in-the-box” safety who didn’t excel in coverage. Apparently, Dallas already thought of this as Dan Quinn wanted to use him as a linebacker.

In the end, Neal agreed to a one-year deal to rejoin Quinn, who was his head coach in Atlanta. The expectation is that he will play WILL Linebacker but could drop back and play some safety as well in sub-packages.

Whatever they decide to do with Neal, he’s going to be a great addition. He had 100 tackles last season, which was the third time he did so in his career. He does have some injury concerns but he’s also playing on a one-year deal to prove he deserves a bigger contract, and that motivation could help the Cowboys.

Another reason this signing is significant is that it shows Dallas is finally thinking outside of the box. Many other teams are already employing hybrid safety/linebackers which have been effective in a pass-happy league. Having one of their own can only help them slow down opposing passing attacks.