When the Dallas Cowboys selected DeMarvion Overshown in the third round of the 2023 draft, the expectation was that he would instantly bolster a linebacker unit in dire need of his talents. Overshown showed promise during the preseason, but unfortunately, he sustained an ACL tear and was sidelined. Naturally, the Cowboys were prudent with his rehabilitation.
Now that he’s back in action, we’re witnessing weekly glimpses of Overshown’s capabilities on the field, and it’s truly impressive. The former Texas Longhorn didn’t delay in making an impact. In the Cowboys’ season opener against the Cleveland Browns, Overshown participated in 44% of the snaps yet recorded 11 tackles and a sack. Since then, Overshown has consistently elevated his game, currently ranking second on the Cowboys with 84 tackles and five sacks. Even when he doesn’t sack the quarterback, Overshown disrupts their play with 17 pressures and 10 hurries across 67 pass-rush snaps this season.
What sets Overshown apart, much like All-Pro Micah Parsons, is his versatility. In addition to his 584 snaps in the box, he has 84 on the defensive line and six in the slot, which isn’t surprising given his past as a safety, showcasing his coverage skills. Overshown secured his first career interception on Thanksgiving against the New York Giants, tipping the ball to himself and taking it all the way for a touchdown.
It was a significant moment for Overshown, as he shared after the Cowboys’ victory. “I was just playing football, and it’s like, man, I knew a play was coming and I’ve been told all week that play is coming. I didn’t know when it was coming, but it was coming, and I was just playing football. I saw the ball, tipped it, and I was just praying the whole time that it stayed up. I was like, ‘Man, please let my speed, for once, be fast enough to get to this ball. Everywhere else is cool, but let me get to this ball.’ So the emotions? I’m just overjoyed right now. It’s a good win, and I’m proud of our team.”
Returning from a major injury like an ACL tear is challenging, with no assurance that a player will return to their former self. Just ask former Cowboy and now-retired wide receiver Michael Gallup, who suffered the same injury at the end of the 2021 season, and was never quite the same player. For Overshown, not only has he evidently recovered, but he’s also playing at an elite level.
Remarkably, his NFL career at the moment equates to a redshirt freshman in college. Watching Overshown play is akin to observing a heat-seeking missile. He immediately shifts into another gear once the ball is snapped, making decisive reads of his cues. Overshown doesn’t resemble someone playing in his first full season; he appears as a seasoned veteran.
While rehabbing last year, Overshown dreamed of showcasing his talent on the professional stage. “I’m very thankful. Just before the game, I was telling myself around this time last year, I was just waiting to show people my testimony of when I get back on the field. I’m going to show what God has truly put in me — to inspire and play like I do.”
Overshown is only 12 games into his career, yet he’s already performing at a high level. It’s safe to say, we’ve only begun to see what he’s capable of.
