Cowboys hope a position switch yields positive results for these 2 players
Kelvin Joseph
As reported by Cowboys’ beat writer Michael Gehlken, Kelvin Joseph spent some time in OTAs as the fifth defensive back in the Big Nickel package that is considered the base of Dan Quinn‘s defense.
In a Nickel package, the defense deploys five defensive backs into the formation, and is usually comprised of three cornerbacks and two safeties.
In DQ’s Big Nickel, that formation is inverted. It instead features a third safety as the fifth defensive back, as opposed to a third cornerback.
2022 Impact
Entering his third season out of the University of Kentucky, it appears that Joseph’s progress at the cornerback position has not been what was desired after he was taken with the 44th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
His lack of playing time on defense as a rookie is understandable. In 2022, however, he saw his defensive snap percentage drop from 24% to 15%.
Joseph’s role shifted instead to special teams, where he played 70% of the snaps at a high level. He and CJ Goodwin were considered one of the best special teams tandems in all of football.
The only real defensive exposure Joseph received was when he was forced into action in a game versus Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars in Jacksonville.
In a complete defensive breakdown, the Cowboys surrendered a 27-10 third quarter lead, eventually losing in overtime 40-34.
Football is a team effort, but Kelvin Joseph deservedly garnered much of the blame for that second half breakdown. Forced into action due to injury, Joseph entered midway through the third quarter in place of Anthony Brown at left outside cornerback.
It wasn’t pretty, and Dan Quinn immediately regretted his decision. Trevor Lawrence identified the weak link in the secondary, and the air raid was on.
Joseph was targeted three times, and gave up two completions for 69 yards. Both completions went for touchdowns on consecutive drives by the Jaguars to bring the game within three points.
Possible 2023 Impact
Bringing it into 2023, the move to safety is likely to be able to get him to contribute on defense in some capacity.
Trevon Diggs is locked in as the Cowboys’ #1 cornerback. The addition of Stephon Gilmore, along with the emergence of DaRon Bland and the return of Jourdan Lewis from injury doesn’t leave much room for Joseph to get in on defense as a cornerback.
The safety room features a big three of Jayron Kearse, Donovan Wilson, and Malik Hooker. Beyond that, there are no players of note.
Joseph, who was a 4-star recruit at safety coming of out high school, is no stranger to the position. He has the skill to step in for Malik Hooker in a single high safety look, or can drop down into the box to cover tight ends.
It’s still early in the offseason, but Joseph can carve out a role in the defense at safety if given the opportunity.
