The New Orleans Saints have opted to retain key players while also making strategic changes to their roster this offseason. Notable incomings include Brandin Cooks, who returns after a stint with the Dallas Cowboys, and defensive lineman Nathan Shepherd. However, the Saints have seen the departure of former first-round pick Payton Turner, whose tenure was marred by injuries and underwhelming performance, totaling just 5 sacks over four seasons. Turner has now signed with the Cowboys, where he expressed enthusiasm for the shift in defensive schemes under Matt Eberflus, highlighting the Cowboys' focus on versatility and aggressive play style, contrasting with the Saints' more rigid system.

Turner acknowledged the challenges he faced in New Orleans, particularly in adapting to a system that emphasized technique over instinctive play. He believes that his ability to penetrate the offense could flourish in Dallas, allowing him to play to his strengths. With renewed focus on conditioning and a fresh start, Turner hopes to emerge as a more impactful player in his fifth season. Meanwhile, the Saints are looking to solidify their roster around their returning stars as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The Dallas Cowboys have embraced a unique strategy this offseason, focusing on acquiring former first-round draft picks who have not yet fulfilled their potential in the NFL. Notable additions include Kenneth Murray, Kaiir Elam, Solomon Thomas, Dante Fowler, and Payton Turner—players with impressive pedigrees but mixed results in their careers thus far. Additionally, second-round talents like Javonte Williams, Parris Campbell, and Miles Sanders have joined the ranks.

This approach highlights the Cowboys' belief in the raw traits of these players, banking on their coaching staff to unlock the skills that previous teams could not. With investments in these players, the Cowboys find themselves in a position where success or failure hinges on how well their new coaching strategies can rehabilitate these once-promising athletes. The team is optimistic that, under the right guidance, they can transform their roster's fortunes while continuing to bolster their defensive depth.

Payton Turner, selected 28th overall by the New Orleans Saints in the 2021 NFL Draft, has faced significant challenges in his early career primarily due to injuries. After a disappointing start with only three sacks in 15 games over three seasons, he found a new opportunity with the Dallas Cowboys. With the guidance of defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, Turner is optimistic about maximizing his potential as he transitions to a scheme that emphasizes penetration and aggressiveness on the defensive line.

Turner's 2024 season was a turning point, as he played a full 16 games and recorded a career-high two sacks. The former first-round pick has since adopted new training and recovery routines to ensure his health and performance improve moving forward. His excitement to team up with All-Pro Micah Parsons suggests that the Cowboys see him as a valuable asset moving forward.

The Dallas Cowboys are looking to emulate the success of the Philadelphia Eagles by strategically targeting players with untapped potential at low costs. This offseason, they've made moves similar to the Eagles’ signing of linebacker Zack Baun, who transformed into an All-Pro after being undervalued. The Cowboys are focusing on former first-round picks with promising traits but limited production in their previous teams.

Key signings include Payton Turner, a defensive end with impressive physical attributes but plagued by injuries; Kaiir Elam, a cornerback known for his height and athleticism; and Kenneth Murray, a linebacker who has shown consistent performance despite mixed analytical reviews. If the Cowboys can unlock the potential of these players with the right coaching, they could significantly bolster their defense.

The Dallas Cowboys continue to bolster their defensive line with the signing of Payton Turner, a former first-round pick from the New Orleans Saints. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 270 pounds, Turner was selected 28th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft but faced challenges during his tenure with the Saints, including injuries that hindered his development.

In his four seasons with New Orleans, he notched 50 tackles, five sacks, and 11 tackles for loss across 31 games without a start. The Cowboys are hoping Turner can revitalize his career in Dallas, especially with the potential for him to learn and grow alongside Micah Parsons, another 2021 first-round selection renowned for his pass-rushing prowess.