Countdown to the season opener: Day 53 DeMarcus Lawrence

We’re counting down to the season opener (Day 53) with some Cowboys history

We’re counting down the days until the Dallas Cowboys battle the Philadelphia Eagles in the season opener of the 2025 NFL season. To pass the time and mark the days, we running through 100 Days of Cowboys. So sit back and enjoy some Cowboys history while we countdown to football.

Today – number 53.

DeMarcus Lawrence

Born: April 28, 1992. Aiken, South Carolina
Position: Defensive End
Dallas Cowboys: 2014-2024
Awards: All-Pro- 2017
Pro Bowl– 2017, 2018, 2022, 2023

Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images

DeMarcus Lawrence played defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys from 2014 until 2024, after being selected in the second round out of Boise State. Known for his explosive first step, powerful hands, and relentless motor, Lawrence developed into one of the league’s premier edge rushers. He broke out in 2017 with 14.5 sacks, earning All-Pro honors and multiple Pro Bowl selections. A leader on and off the field, Lawrence anchored Dallas’s defensive front for years, contributing as both a pass rusher and a run stopper.

Best known for:
Lawrence is best known for being the emotional and physical leader of the Cowboys’ defense, consistently applying pressure on quarterbacks while setting the edge against the run with equal effectiveness.

Lesser known fact:
Before settling in as the leader on the Dallas defense, Lawrence gave coaches serious concern at the start of his career with limited production, a suspension, and injuries. His flashes in the playoffs against the Detroit Lions was enough to keep the coaches interested however.