The Big D defense did not struggle in 2025 solely because of talent. Dallas had playmakers up front and speed at every level. The problems showed up in execution. Missed tackles extended drives. Third-down stops slipped away because of penalties or blown coverages. The defense flashed ability but did not play with steady discipline.
Cowboys DT Kenny Clark was candid yesterday on what the defense needs in the offseason:
“I just think we need a bunch of dogs. A bunch of guys who truly love and care about football and not just going on the football field expecting to make plays. Going home and doing the right…
— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) January 1, 2026
Kenny Clark addressed that issue directly on Jan 1, 2026, in a locker room interview with The Dallas Morning News. The veteran DT skipped scheme talk and focused on mentality. “I just think we need a bunch of dogs. A bunch of guys who truly love and care about football and not just going on the football field expecting to make plays,” Clark said. His message focused on effort, preparation, and pride in doing the small things right every snap.
Kenny Clark Backs Up His Words With Leadership and Production in Dallas
Apr 1, 2023; Pomona, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Kenny Clark with NHRA funny car driver Matt Hagan during qualifying for the Winternationals at In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Weight behind Clark's words comes from his debut impact with Big D. That year, the thirty-year-old defensive tackle showed up in 2025 via the deal shipping Micah Parsons to Green Bay - one shift that redrawn Dallas' entire defensive look. For an inside lineman, fitting into fresh schemes often trips them up; yet here, he stood firm at the core.
His impact has not gone unnoticed inside the building. On Dec 29, Cowboys EVP Stephen Jones said on 105.3 The Fan, “Kenny has just been more than advertised for us. He's a leader. He's great on the field. He's great off the field. He's a guy we want to have around here.” That praise highlights Clark’s role beyond stats. He sets the tone in meetings and on practice fields.
Production still matters, and Clark delivered there, too. He had 3 sacks heading into the regular season finale against the N.Y. Giants. Interior pressure rarely shows up in big numbers, but it disrupts protections and forces quarterbacks to move off their spot.
That background explains why Clark spoke up. He has played in disciplined defensive systems before and understands what consistent effort looks like. When he says the Cowboys need “dogs,” he means players who pursue every snap, communicate before the play, and finish tackles.
How to Bring Kenny Clark for Speaking Engagement?
Kenny Clark brings the same leadership and steady presence off the field that he shows every Sunday in the NFL. Kenny Clark speaking engagement, appearances, and special events are available through Mayfield Sports, his official booking and marketing representative. The agency works directly with organizations to set up events and streamline booking.
For availability, appearance fees, or booking details, contact Mayfield Sports at 262.366.8188. You can also submit a request through Kenny Clark’s booking request page with Mayfield Sports. Mayfield Marketing helps connect athletes with brands and organizations seeking to create meaningful, memorable events. You can also get a fresh update about him from Kenny Clark's athletic page.
