As the NFL offseason looms, speculation and anticipation swirl around the Dallas Cowboys’ potential moves in the free agent market. With the opportunity to shore up their roster, address areas of need, and position themselves for success (NFC Championship appearance at bare minimum) in the upcoming season, the Cowboys face a series of critical decisions that will shape the trajectory of the franchise–at least for the next “all-in” season!
Key Departures and Roster Evaluation:
Before delving into potential free agent acquisitions, the Cowboys must first take stock of their current roster and evaluate areas of strength and weakness. The departure of key players and impending free agents will undoubtedly influence the team’s approach to free agency. Identifying positions in need of reinforcement and prioritizing areas for improvement will be paramount for the Cowboys’ front office. The Cowboys have had their 3rd 12-win season in a row, but there are plenty of holes to fill (especially on defense when it comes to the run).
One area of focus for the Cowboys is the defense, particularly the secondary and the pass rush. With several veteran players hitting free agency and the need for upgrades in coverage and pressure on the quarterback, expect the Cowboys to target impact players on defense to fortify their unit.
Potential Targets and Strategic Priorities:
In the free agent market, the Cowboys are expected to be selective in their pursuit of players who align with their strategic priorities and fit within their extremely tight (up until this morning $10 mill in the red) salary cap constraints. While big-name signings may generate headlines, the Cowboys’ approach to free agency is likely to emphasize value, versatility, and team chemistry.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Cowboys may explore options to provide additional support and weapons for quarterback Dak Prescott. While the Cowboys boast a talented receiving corps led by CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks, adding depth at the wide receiver position could provide Prescott with additional playmaking options and flexibility in the passing game. The running game is also a concern. Tony Pollard is most likely going to walk in free agency, and even if he doesn’t they need a compliment to him.
In addition to bolstering the offensive weapons, the Cowboys may also look to address areas of need along the offensive line. With the seeming departure of franchise tackle, Tyron Smith, the need for protection for Prescott just ratcheted up a big blindside notch! In a post from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport he say’s the All-Pro tackle is ‘unlikely’ to return to Dallas in 2024.
On the defensive side, the Cowboys may pursue upgrades at cornerback, safety, and edge rusher to shore up their pass defense and generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. They also have run stopping issues to solve, and adding to that situation their defense has eight players set to become free agents including cornerbacks Stephon Gilmore, Jourdon Lewis and Noah Igbinoghene, defensive ends Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr., safety Jayron Kearse, defensive tackles Neville Gallimore and Johnathan Hankins. The Cowboys front office and new (but also past) DC Mike Zimmer will be tasked with identifying and targeting free agents who can make an immediate impact on defense.
Salary Cap Considerations and Long-Term Planning:
As already mentioned the Cowboys salary cap space is currently an issue, but that’s usually the case with Dallas. Potential extensions loom especially for All-Pro QB, Dak Prescott, who has a 2024 cap hit of $59.4 million, but they always seem to find away. In fact, according to ESPN Staff Writer, Todd Archer, they just reworked All-Pro right guard Zack Martin’s contract. He reported, “Martin’s contract was set to expire after this season, but he had three voidable years through 2027. The Cowboys gained about $13 million in space for 2024 by reworking his deal, which gets them under the $255 million cap before the start of the league year next week.”
Possible Free Agents to Go After:
As we’ve already discussed the Cowboys typically don’t spend much or make big splashes in the free-agency market, but there are some possible top-tier players they may try and make work if the money can be freed up. According to Sanjesh Singh from NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth these are five good fits for the Cowboys:
LB, Bobby Wagner Seattle Seahawks
OL Graham Glasgow, Detroit Lions
RB Gus Edwards, Baltimore Ravens
DT John Jenkins, Las Vegas Raiders
CB Steven Nelson, Houston Texans
While the Cowboys’ approach to free agency may vary depending on roster evaluations, salary cap considerations, and strategic priorities, one thing remains clear: this may truly be an “all-in” year. Yes, we know full well that Jerry Jones likes to throw that phrase around, but given it’s the last year of Head Coach Mike McCarthy’s contract and that Jerry might let Dak play out his walk year with no extension then maybe he actually means it this time.