Cowboys Evaluated Rookie Jaishawn Barham for Starting Role
Dallas coaches are weighing whether to keep the rookie linebacker in the starting lineup following strong performances.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Football
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Dallas Cowboys coaching staff are considering retaining rookie Jaishawn Barham as the starting Mike linebacker. The decision comes as the team prepares for the return of DeMarvion Overshown from a hamstring injury.
Why it matters
Barham has demonstrated significant growth and impact in his early appearances, putting pressure on established roster hierarchies. His potential promotion highlights the team's ongoing search for consistency in its defensive unit.
Jaishawn Barham holds a Pro Football Focus grade of 70.8 and currently ranks 19th among NFL linebackers. In contrast, teammate Dee Winters sits at 71st out of 71 evaluated linebackers with a grade of 35.3.
The players
Jaishawn Barham
He is a third-round draft pick and rookie linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys who played college football in Michigan.
Brian Schottenheimer
He serves as a member of the coaching staff for the Dallas Cowboys who commented on the team's potential roster adjustments.
DeMarvion Overshown
He is a Dallas Cowboys linebacker returning to the active roster following a hamstring injury.
Dee Winters
He is a linebacker whose performance metrics are currently trailing behind the team's recent defensive additions.
The details
Offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer noted that Barham has made a compelling case to remain in the starting lineup after playing at the Mike linebacker position. The team must now balance this production against the return of DeMarvion Overshown, who was sidelined by a hamstring injury.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: Brian Schottenheimer discussed potential roster changes with the media.
Week 4: DeMarvion Overshown is expected to return for the game against the Texans.
Season Trajectory
The potential promotion of Barham marks a shift in the defensive rotation that could stabilize the team's performance heading into the heart of the 2026 season. This adjustment follows the pattern set by the 2026 Dallas Cowboys training camp roster evaluations, aiming to solidify the linebacker corps.
The return of DeMarvion Overshown and the possible shift to Barham as the starter at Mike linebacker will dictate the team's defensive rotation for the upcoming game against the Texans. This development directly impacts defensive depth charts and overall team defensive efficiency.
The takeaway
Rookie performance can rapidly alter team strategies when established veterans return from injury. Readers should monitor defensive personnel groupings as a primary indicator of coaching confidence in young players.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heavy.
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Should your local sports team prioritize a rookie's performance over an established veteran's starting role?
