FRISCO, Texas – As the Cowboys usher in a new era in 2025, their linebacker lineup will undergo changes too, with Kenneth Murray Jr., formerly of the Tennessee Titans, and Jack Sanborn, previously with the Chicago Bears, joining the team via free agency. Murray, now on his third team in as many years, led the Titans with 95 tackles last season and served as a team captain.

With the Cowboys, he aims to become a leader both on and off the field. “I believe leadership begins with setting an example; you can’t ask others to do what you’re not doing yourself…” Murray expressed. “I see myself as the traffic cop in the middle, organizing everything and everyone.”

Having a strong supporting cast is crucial for leadership, and Murray is confident in the Cowboys’ roster to create a formidable defense. “I believe we have all the components needed to dominate defensively in the NFL,” Murray remarked.

“Looking at our lineup, we’re poised to be a fast and aggressive defense.” This aligns perfectly with what new defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus envisions. Sanborn, who spent the first three years of his career under Eberflus and now Cowboys linebackers coach Dave Borgonzi in Chicago, knows exactly what to expect from their reunion.

“Both are exceptional coaches with brilliant defensive acumen. During my time in Chicago, that was clear, and they’re also great individuals who inspire players and bring out the best in me,” Sanborn shared. “I enjoyed working with them and am eager to continue building a strong defense here.”

Eberflus’ defenses have excelled at halting the run and forcing turnovers, a hallmark of recent Cowboys defenses which, however, struggled against the run last season, ranking 29th and not finishing in the top 10 since 2018. Sanborn is optimistic this trend will change.

“Playing aggressively, stopping the run is a priority,” Sanborn explained. “We need to be physical, fly to the football, tackle efficiently, and force turnovers, which are key focuses for him.” Murray suggests that achieving this requires focusing on the defensive mindset to succeed within the scheme.

“Run defense is largely about mentality; while schematics play a role, it’s about having the right mindset and setting clear objectives,” Murray stated. “It’s not complicated; it’s about communicating, understanding our roles in the scheme, and playing with a mindset that we won’t allow anyone to run on us.”