Cowboys' Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence Top Eagles Elite List: 'Good Battles!'
The Dallas Cowboys have sported one of the NFL's top defenses over the past two seasons. Look no further than the unit leading the league in takeaways in both 2021 (34) and 2022 (33) while also tying the New England Patriots for the third-most sacks (54) this past season.
The sack total is certainly impressive. Led by the likes of Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence and more, the Cowboys have grown accustomed to terrorizing most offenses that stand in their way.
But none of this recent success has come against Philadelphia Eagles All-Pro right tackle Lane Johnson, who still hasn't allowed a sack since 2020. Still, the Cowboys' defense have given Johnson his fair share of battles, even if it doesn't always appear on the stat sheet.
Parsons has opened up about his friendship with Johnson, and the Eagles star tackle recently repaid the favor during an appearance on Richard Sherman's podcast, where Johnson listed the toughest pass-rushers he's had to face in recent years.
NFC East rivalry aside, Johnson gave both Parsons and Lawrence their flowers, listing them among a handful of the best guys he's had to block. Here's who made the cut:
- Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns
- Maxx Crosby, Las Vegas Raiders
- T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh Steelers
- Olivier Vernon, Miami Dolphins
“They’re all so unique,” he said. “Those guys obviously are skilled, but those players are so smart. They look at your stances and they’re looking at your eyes, so some stuff you might be able to get away with some guys, but with those three you have to be at your best.”
In regard to Lawrence, Johnson admitted he's had some memorable matchups. "I've had some good battles with DeMarcus," he said.
More of these one-on-one bouts are certainly on the way, especially with Philly and Dallas set for the annual pair of division matchups that are only heightened due to the Super Bowl aspirations of both squads. But it won't end there for Johnson, who also has to face Garrett and Vernon this upcoming season.
It's anyone's guess when Johnson will allow his next sack. But considering the competitiveness of both Parsons and Lawrence, they likely want him to wait until the Cowboys and Eagles meet at Lincoln Financial Field for the first of two meetings on Sunday, Nov. 5.
You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7
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