FRISCO, Texas — The learning curve can be steep for NFL rookies, but Dallas Cowboys rookie outside linebacker Malachi Lawrence believes he is settling into life as a professional as the team wraps up its offseason program.
The former UCF standout said organized team activities and minicamp have helped him develop a better understanding of what it takes to succeed at the next level. Surrounded by veterans and an experienced coaching staff, Lawrence feels increasingly comfortable with both the playbook and the daily routine of being an NFL player.
“I’m definitely starting to get into that routine of being a pro,” Lawrence said. “Just locking in with the vets and learning from them every day has been great.”
One of Lawrence’s primary areas of focus this offseason has been improving his first step off the edge. Working closely with Dallas’ defensive coaches, he has concentrated on maximizing his explosiveness and believes the work is already paying dividends.
“I’ve definitely felt faster,” Lawrence said. “It’s been one of my key focuses every day so I can use my explosiveness to my advantage when getting off the ball.”
Lawrence has also benefited from studying veteran teammates who emphasize the finer details of the position. Whether it’s footwork, leverage, or positioning, he said the attention to detail required at the NFL level is unlike anything he experienced previously.
“It’s the small things,” Lawrence said. “The details matter, and that’s something the veterans really stress.”
Lawrence said the veteran presence in the defensive room has helped accelerate his development, particularly when it comes to understanding the professional approach required to succeed in the league.
“He definitely feels like a leader in that room and on the team,” Lawrence said. “You can tell he’s been in the league for years. The way he carries himself and the way he works stands out.”
Learning Christian Parker’s defensive system and absorbing information has not been a major obstacle. Lawrence described himself as a quick learner and credits note-taking and film study for helping him stay ahead.
“Knowing your job starts with the playbook,” Lawrence said. “Taking notes helps because when coaches ask questions, you can answer them confidently.”
Communication has become another emphasis during offseason workouts. Lawrence noted that constant communication across the defensive front is critical to building a successful defense.
“All good defenses communicate,” Lawrence said. “Sometimes the guy next to you may need that information, and it can help him make a play.”
With minicamp now complete, Lawrence will experience his first significant break since finishing his college season, going through the pre-draft process, and participating in rookie minicamp and OTAs. While he plans to enjoy the downtime, he understands the importance of staying prepared before reporting to training camp in Oxnard, California.
“The main thing is staying locked in,” Lawrence said. “Keeping the main thing the main thing and coming back in shape and ready to go.”
Off the field, Lawrence and several members of Dallas’ rookie class have spent time together building chemistry. Bowling outings and other team activities have helped strengthen relationships before the competition intensifies in training camp.
Lawrence also acknowledged that he has often flown under the radar throughout his football journey. Whether at UCF or during the pre-draft process, he has become accustomed to letting his work speak for itself.
“I’ve kind of always been in the shadows,” Lawrence said. “That’s never bothered me. When the time comes, people will see the work that you put in.”
As the Cowboys prepare to head west for training camp, Lawrence remains focused on earning a role within Dallas’ defense. If his offseason approach is any indication, the rookie linebacker plans to let his performance do the talking.
