The Dallas Cowboys are giving rookie linebacker Jaishawn Barham responsibility for directing the defense in their Week 2 game against the Washington Commanders. Barham will wear the green dot, a role confirmed by Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer and reported by Jon Machota of The Athletic.
The move follows a difficult defensive showing in the Cowboys' season opener against the New York Giants. Dallas gave up 28 points and struggled to limit New York's offense.
The upcoming game continues the teams' NFC East schedule. Both Dallas and Washington lost their opening games to division opponents, leaving the loser of their matchup with an 0-2 record.
Barham is a rookie from Michigan and a third-round pick. He is now being tasked with helping the Cowboys defense contain Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels in his second NFL game.
Christian Parker, Dallas' defensive coordinator, is making the change after the Week 1 performance. Further details about the decision were not provided.
