Jaylon Smith, Leighton Vander Esch, Dallas Cowboys (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)
How has the Dallas Cowboys’ linebacker corps fallen so quickly?
Only a couple of years ago, the Dallas Cowboys were known for two stellar positional units. A dominant offensive line and one of the most talented and youngest linebacker corps in the NFL. This season, both areas have been weak links for America’s Team.
The offensive line issues really started this offseason with the sudden retirement of All-Pro center Travis Frederick. Early season-ending injuries suffered by both right tackle La’el Collins and left tackle Tyron Smith forced Dallas to start inexperienced players in their place.