Dallas Cowboys linebacker corps has unexpected star emerging

The Dallas Cowboys defense had a much better showing in Week 5 than their previous four games.

Part of that can be attributed to the New York Jets being abysmal on offense. That said, the New York Giants were also terrible with Russell Wilson and he led them to 37 points on this defense.

MORE: Cowboys’ hidden gem among highest PFF grades against Jets in Week 5

Part of the reason they looked better this weekend can be attributed to more comfort in the scheme. Another part has been a shift in personnel.

The Cowboys shook up their defense slightly and have been utilizing linebackers Marist Liufau and Shemar James more frequently. Liufau had a huge play, punching the ball out of Breece Hall’s hands, but James was also impressive.

A fifth-round pick out of Florida, James has been active the past two games and had five tackles on Week 4 and 15 in Week 5. More importantly, he has just one missed tackle giving him a 95.2 percent tackle efficiency.

Through his first two NFL games, #Cowboys rookie LB Shemar James has tallied 20 tackles, including a team leading 15 on Sunday against the #Jets, and has only one missed tackle in that stretch.

James' 95.2% tackle efficiency is the best amongst Dallas' linebackers. pic.twitter.com/JxUAxALhQO
— Tommy Yarrish (@tommy_yarrish) October 6, 2025

That’s huge for a defense that’s had troubles getting players to the ground. Missed tackles have been a killer, allowing opposing teams to extend drives and wear down the defense.

James, who is showing exceptional instincts, could be another steal by this front office. He’s also going to be tough to take off the field if he keeps wrapping up the ball carrier with such efficiency.

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Shemar James lines up during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Green Bay Packers. | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

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