Editor's note: The following story is part of SportsDay's 2018 Cowboys Preview, included in Thursday editions of The Dallas Morning News this week. To subscribe to SportsDayDFW.com for all the latest news about your team this season, click here.
Before anyone knew that All-Pro center Travis Frederick might miss substantial time this year, the Cowboys' defense was committed to a new role. Taking charge. Winning games. Being more than a caretaker opposite the club's dynamic offense.
"We want to be the No. 1 defense in the league," linebacker Jaylon Smith said during the preseason.