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Shemar Jones Takes Over Green Dot After Eagles Win
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- Shemar Jones Takes Over Green Dot After Eagles Win
The Dallas Cowboys have made a change at the center of their defense, giving linebacker Shemar James responsibility for wearing the green dot during their Week 7 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.
James took over the communication role as Dallas defeated Philadelphia 38-21, helping the Cowboys snap a two-game losing streak. The second-year linebacker led the team with six tackles, adding to an encouraging stretch that has earned him greater responsibility in defensive coordinator Christian Parker's scheme.
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Shemar James earns Cowboys' green dot responsibility
James learned earlier in the week that Parker and linebackers coach Scott Symons wanted him to take over the green dot, giving him time to prepare before facing Philadelphia.
The role requires a linebacker to receive defensive play calls through his helmet communication system and relay the information to teammates. It also demands leadership, command of the defensive scheme and the ability to keep the unit organized.
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"I was ready to go," James said. "Just another opportunity to go out there and maximize my ability and ultimately win the game."
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said James earned the promotion through his performance and leadership over the previous two weeks.
"One, he's earned the responsibility," Schottenheimer said of James earning the job. "He's played really, really well since his insertion two weeks ago. I think just the command and control that he does out there is noticeable. You see him talking to everybody, see him driving the car if you will. I thought he did well.
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Cowboys linebacker makes the most of his opportunity
James has already demonstrated that he can produce when given playing time. During his rookie season, he recorded a team-high 91 tackles across 14 games, despite making only six starts.
His performance against Philadelphia offered another example of his value. James led the Cowboys with six tackles in the 38-21 victory, helping Dallas close out an important divisional win.
"I wouldn't say forgot about me, but I'm always here, always available," James said. "I just always stay ready when my number's called and try to go out there and execute to the best of my ability."
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James did not handle the green dot during his college career at Florida, where he primarily played dime linebacker under defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong. However, he felt comfortable with the responsibilities in his first game directing the Cowboys' defense.
"I think everything went smooth, considering that we were playing away so the crowd noise isn't that much more on defense," James said. "There are challenges when we're at home, you have the crowd noise, you really have to get the guys tighter in the huddle and actually listen for the calls."
With Dallas preparing to play at home against Arizona, managing communication in a louder environment will be another test. James has been studying film throughout the week and consulting with Symons whenever he needs clarification.
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Shemar James balances new role with life as a father
James' growing responsibilities on the field have coincided with a major milestone in his personal life. He and his wife, Erica, welcomed their first child, Shemar James Jr., earlier this month.
The linebacker nearly missed the birth after his wife went into labor during Dallas' Week 4 victory over the Houston Texans. Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones arranged for James to travel back to Dallas on his private jet so he could be with his family.
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James now wears "James Sr." on the back of his No. 50 jersey, a personal touch that reflects his new role as a father.
"It's amazing," James said of parenthood. "You may not get that much sleep, but it's just amazing waking up to him, going to sleep, just seeing you can create something.
He even joked that his newborn is already getting an early education in football.
"He's watching the film with me. He's going to be a dang good MIKE one day."
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For now, James' focus remains on helping the Cowboys improve defensively. The green-dot responsibility places him at the center of the communication process, making his preparation and composure essential as Dallas works to become more consistent.
This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
