Dallas Cowboys Stick to Conservative Strategy in NFL Free Agency
In a free agency period defined by bold moves and significant signings, the Dallas Cowboys chose a more conservative path. Eschewing big-ticket acquisitions, the Cowboys instead focused on strategic, cost-effective decisions that reflect their long-term planning for future seasons.
One of the noteworthy additions to their roster was the signing of 32-year-old linebacker Eric Kendricks. Kendricks, a seasoned veteran, joined the Cowboys on a one-year deal valued at $3 million, with potential incentives that could push the contract’s value to $3.5 million. This move was seen as essential to fill the void left by the retiring Leighton Vander Esch, a key player in the Cowboys’ defense.
Addressing the running back position, the Cowboys re-signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract worth $1.255 million. Additionally, Ezekiel Elliott, a prominent figure in Dallas' backfield, returned to the team on a one-year deal valued at $2 million. Elliott’s contract includes incentives that could raise its value to $3 million. Despite the seemingly low investment, this post-June 1 release designation brings a future cap charge of $6.04 million for the Cowboys in 2024.
However, the Cowboys faced criticism for not going after other high-profile free agents, notably running back Derrick Henry. Henry, who ultimately signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens, had hoped for a different scenario. "I was like, man, if I'm not in Tennessee or I don't get to go to Dallas, I'd love to be a Raven," Henry revealed on the "Pivot" podcast. His deal includes $9 million fully guaranteed and could reach $20 million with incentives, an amount the Cowboys were unwilling or unable to match.
Reflecting on the Cowboys’ free agency approach, owner Jerry Jones was candid about the team's decisions. "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is," Henry said. Jones elaborated, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry," affirming the team's fiscal prudence. Despite the conservative stance, Jones proclaimed that Dallas would be "all in" for the 2024 season, hinting at more aggressive maneuvers in the future.
On the field, the Cowboys' current rushing stats reveal room for improvement. Ranking 30th in the NFL with an average of just 73.7 yards per game, the team’s running backs have accumulated only 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. Dallas ranks above only the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins in rushing yards over expectation, sitting at minus 74 yards.
In contrast, Derrick Henry's performance underscores what the Cowboys might have missed. Henry has amassed 281 rushing yards, tying for fifth in the NFL and boasting four touchdowns, sharing the top position in rushing touchdowns. His average of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation position him amongst the elite running backs in the league. Henry’s prowess brings into sharp relief the potential impact he could have had in Dallas’ struggling rushing offense.
Elsewhere in the NFL, the Philadelphia Eagles made headlines by signing Landon Dickerson to a record-breaking contract, making him the highest-paid offensive guard in March. Such moves by rival teams spotlight the diverse strategies within the league during this free agency period.
The Cowboys' cautious approach, while fiscally responsible, has been a subject of much debate among fans and analysts. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, it remains to be seen whether their conservative tactics will pay off, or if they will need to reconsider their strategy to keep pace with their more ambitious rivals.