The Dallas Cowboys have a $33 million question mark on defense, and it's not about whether their new safety can tackle. It's about who will wear the green dot—the helmet communicator that connects the defense to the coaching staff. And head coach Brian Schottenheimer might have already tipped his hand.

For a team that's overhauled its linebacker corps without adding a true middle linebacker, the green dot mystery is one of the biggest storylines heading into OTAs. The Cowboys brought in multiple weak-side types this offseason, but none with deep experience in the role. That's led to speculation about a creative solution: having a defensive back handle the responsibility instead.

Enter Jalen Thompson. The Cowboys' biggest free agent signing since Brandon Carr in 2013, Thompson inked a $33 million deal to anchor the secondary. But according to Schottenheimer, he could also be the one relaying calls from the sideline. "It might be DeMarvion Overshown, it might be Jalen Thompson, it might be Dee Winters, it might be whoever," Schottenheimer said at rookie minicamp. "At the end of the day, communication comes down to not just the green dot, but the entire defense."

Notice Thompson is the only non-linebacker mentioned. That's enough to raise an eyebrow—or two. While the green dot is traditionally worn by linebackers, there are exceptions, and Thompson's veteran savvy makes him a natural candidate. Schottenheimer even admitted he has a favorite, though he's keeping it close to the vest. "I have my favorite," he said. "But I'm not going to share it with you."

Whether it's Thompson, Overshown, or someone else, the decision will shape how the Cowboys' defense communicates and executes this season. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, getting that call right is worth every penny.