Dallas Cowboys' Conservative Roster Moves Amid Free Agency Splash
In a period when numerous NFL teams made significant strides during this year's free agency, the Dallas Cowboys opted for a more cautious approach. While high-profile signings made headlines elsewhere, the Cowboys focused on conservative, strategic additions.
Their most notable acquisition was the 32-year-old linebacker Eric Kendricks, who was signed on a one-year deal worth $3 million. With potential incentives, the value of the contract could rise to $3.5 million. Kendricks was introduced to fill the gap created by the retirement of Leighton Vander Esch, underscoring Dallas's strategy of addressing immediate needs with experienced players.
In an effort to bolster their running back roster, the Cowboys re-signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract valued at $1.255 million. This move highlights the team's focus on retaining familiar talent to maintain consistency in their gameplay. Additionally, Ezekiel Elliott returned to Dallas on a one-year, $2 million contract, which has the potential to increase to $3 million through performance-based incentives.
Despite Elliott's return, the Cowboys are not without challenges. They face a $6.04 million cap charge in 2024 due to Elliott's post-June 1 release designation. Moreover, their running game has been underwhelming, ranking 30th in the NFL with an average of just 73.7 rushing yards per game. Dallas's running backs have managed a mere 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. The team stands at minus 74 rushing yards over expectation, positioning them only above the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins.
Interestingly, the Cowboys' more conservative free agency moves come in stark contrast to other blockbuster deals around the league. Derrick Henry, a standout running back, signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens at the start of free agency. Henry’s contract includes $9 million fully guaranteed and incentives that could raise its value to $20 million. Henry has already proven his value to the Ravens, accumulating 281 rushing yards - placing him fifth in the NFL - and tying at the top for rushing touchdowns with four. His impressive average of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation solidify his status as one of the league's elite backs.
Derrick Henry had expressed a particular interest in playing for Dallas had the opportunity arisen. "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 remarked on the "Pivot" podcast. Despite his enthusiasm, the Cowboys did not pursue him. "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is," Henry revealed, highlighting a missed opportunity for Dallas.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones addressed the situation candidly, stating, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry." Jones reiterated this sentiment, emphasizing the financial constraints that influenced their decision-making process during free agency. He did, however, express confidence in the current roster, saying, "I like our personnel. We couldn't afford Derrick Henry." Jones also assured fans that Dallas would be "all in" for the 2024 season, underscoring their commitment to future success despite the conservative approach this year.
Elsewhere in the league, the Philadelphia Eagles made Landon Dickerson the NFL’s highest-paid offensive guard in March. Meanwhile, by structuring a two-year, $14 million contract for Henry, the Ravens were able to potentially reduce his cap number for 2024 to $2.595 million through the addition of three dummy years.
As the Cowboys look towards the upcoming season, their tactical moves during free agency reveal a calculated attempt to balance experience, talent retention, and future financial flexibility. While fans might have hoped for more aggressive signings, the team's strategic approach underlines a long-term vision aimed at sustained success.