It’s been a long time coming for Randy Gregory. The talented defensive end got his opportunity this season to showcase what he could do playing a full schedule and he’s taken advantage. Currently, Gregory leads the Dallas Cowboys with five sacks and has two games in which he’s brought down the quarterback twice. Also, he leads the team with 29 pressures and his 90.5 grade is third for all edge rushers according to Pro Football Focus.

When the 2022 season rolls around, Gregory will be looking for his long-term financial security. Earlier this week, he mentioned that he doesn’t think about his potential new deal too much, but it does cross his mind from time to time.

“I’d be lying if I said I don’t (think about my next contract), but I don’t think too much into it, Gregory said. “I do better when I live in the present. In the past, it’s been hard for me to do that. It’s really crucial for me to do that right now so I can get the goals I want.”

Gregory is just one sack from tying his career-high for a single season (had six in 2018). That number will be a distant memory shortly especially with the return of DeMarcus Lawrence which will allow Gregory more opportunities for one-on-one situations.

After several suspensions and battling personal demons off the field, Gregory is in the best place mentally since he entered the NFL in 2015. The Cowboys have provided an excellent support system for him and it’s allowed him to be free as a player and show that he’s one of the best edge rushers in the NFL.

Gregory’s story started as a rocky one but he’s been able to turn that around and turn his journey into one that should inspire others to never give up no matter what challenges they may face.