DeMarvion Overshown opens up on nerves in first Dallas Cowboys preseason game

DeMarvion Overshown, who grew up just east of Dallas in Arp, Texas, suited up for the Cowboys for the first time Saturday during his team’s preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

It was the fulfillment of a dream for Overshown, who admitted he had to gather his emotions before taking the field at AT&T Stadium.

“I did [have to settle my emotions,” Overshown said after the game, via the team’s website. “Definitely. Putting the jersey on and putting my armbands on my sleeve and realizing I was about to do this for the Dallas Cowboys. A lot of people dream about it. A lot of people say, ‘Man, I wanna do that.’

“I’m part of that one percent that gets the chance to do that. Before the game, I took five deep breaths and soaked it in. I wouldn’t wanna be [any]where else. I’m glad to be here. I’m looking forward to the rest of the year.”

Overshown, the Cowboys’ third-round pick in April’s NFL Draft out of Texas, was one of the standouts in the 28-23 defeat. The linebacker led the team huddle after warmups and recorded six combined tackles at halftime to pace all Dallas defenders.

I think the #Cowboys might have found something in DeMarvion Overshown. pic.twitter.com/ObuUtjd244

— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) August 12, 2023

“Just getting out there and flying around,” Overshown said. “Really putting on tape that that’s how I play ball — I like flying around. I’m happy when I’m out there and I’m passionate when I’m out there. I’m looking forward to turning on the tape and definitely cleaning up the stuff that didn’t go well but, other than that, I’m ready to move forward and get better from this game.”

DeMarvion Overshown impresses during Cowboys debut

Overshown has a chance to be a factor during his rookie season in defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s defense — that is if he carves out a role for himself. With a couple more performances like this one, it’ll be hard for Quinn and the Cowboys to look away.

“Going out there week by week and flying all over the field — trying to beat everybody to the ball,” Overshown said. “I take pride in being around the ball. That’s what I’m looking forward to — being that guy all year.”

His next opportunity at impressing the coaching staff will come in the Cowboys’ second preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks next Saturday.