NFL writer names $1.5 million defender as Cowboys 'best kept secret'

The Dallas Cowboys' defense is facing some issues heading into the 2025 season, and the biggest problem they have is what to do with star pass rusher Micah Parsons.

Parsons is entering the final year of his rookie contract and has not agreed to a new deal yet.

This season could be the last year we see Parsons in Dallas, which could leave other players having to step up in a major role.

Players who have been on the roster for years or new players who were drafted or signed could have to take over Parsons' production, and one could be a new player who just signed with the Cowboys this offseason.

Bleacher Report's Matt Holder thinks Cowboys linebacker Jack Sanborn is the "best kept secret" on the Dallas roster this season.

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"Sanborn only made 19 starts during his three years with the Chicago Bears, which is a big reason the Cowboys were able to sign him for a cheap one-year, $1.5 million contract in free agency. But the Wisconsin product projects to have a much bigger role in Dallas this season," Holder wrote. "The team’s run defense could use some help, and that’s always been his strength, recording a 70.5 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus in 2024."

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In 48 games with the Bears, Sanborn recorded 4.5 sacks and 164 combined tackles.

Sanborn should be able to help stop the run and provide a pass rush to help the Cowboys' defense get off the field.