Carl Lawson’s Remarkable Comeback: A Journey from Uncertainty to Dominance

A Year of Change for Carl Lawson

In the 2023 NFL offseason, Carl Lawson found himself in an unfamiliar position. After parting ways with the New York Jets following a challenging season—one in which he registered no sacks and wasn’t awarded a single start—the veteran defensive end was searching for a fresh start. His once-promising career was at a crossroads, and he needed to prove that he could still perform at a high level.

Finding a New Home with the Dallas Cowboys

The turning point came when Lawson signed a practice squad contract with the Dallas Cowboys towards the end of training camp. This move marked the beginning of his resurgence. Lawson quickly worked his way onto the active roster, and soon after, he was on the field showcasing his talents. His commitment and hard work paid off, as he finished the season with five sacks—tied for third most on the team—and a substantial number of quarterback pressures.

A Steady Climb to Success

Reflecting on his performance, Lawson saw the season as a success in proving his resilience. “This was a great year for me to prove that I’m still the same caliber of guy,” he said. The key, Lawson explained, was continuous improvement. Rather than having a brief hot streak followed by a drop in performance, he consistently showed up against top-tier competition, establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with.

“I’m excited for the work I’m going to put in this offseason,” Lawson added. “This is the year I feel I’m going to have my biggest jump going into the next season. I’m more confident going into the following season more than any other season before. I know what to do. I know what I need to work on and how to do those things. It’s going to happen inevitably.”

A Dominant Moment: Breaking Down the Best

Lawson’s season also included one of the most memorable moments for the Cowboys: a brutal bull rush against two-time All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowl tackle Tristan Wirfs. Lawson’s ferocious performance left a lasting impression, showcasing the incredible potential he possesses as a pass rusher.

“I know I have scary potential as a football player. It’s just about putting it out there consistently,” Lawson explained. “I’m really excited for the work I’m going to put in this offseason.”

Confidence and Determination for the Future

With his confidence growing and his understanding of what it takes to succeed, Lawson is determined to continue building on his success. He believes that with the right work ethic and mindset, there are no limits to what he can achieve.

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Lawson’s future with the Cowboys remains a possibility. His bonds with the team, forged in the fire of adversity, make it clear that he feels at home in Dallas. When asked if he would be open to returning to the Cowboys in 2025, Lawson responded with a decisive and enthusiastic “One hundred percent.”

The Road Ahead: A Bright Future for Carl Lawson

Carl Lawson’s journey from uncertainty to success has been nothing short of inspiring. He enters the offseason with a clear sense of purpose and a renewed sense of confidence. As he continues to hone his skills and prepare for the upcoming season, it’s clear that the best is yet to come for this dynamic pass rusher. Fans and teammates alike can’t wait to see where his relentless drive will take him next.