Dallas Cowboys Take Conservative Route in Free Agency
While other NFL teams made significant moves during free agency, the Dallas Cowboys opted for a more conservative strategy. This year's free agency period saw the Cowboys make calculated decisions rather than splashy additions, emphasizing depth and value over high-profile signings.
The most notable acquisition for Dallas was the addition of Eric Kendricks. The 32-year-old linebacker signed a one-year deal worth $3 million, with incentives potentially raising its value to $3.5 million. Kendricks is expected to fill the void left by the retiring Leighton Vander Esch, bringing experience and leadership to the Cowboys' defense.
Addressing their need at running back, the Cowboys re-signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract valued at $1.255 million. Additionally, Ezekiel Elliott made his return to Dallas on a one-year, $2 million deal, which includes incentives that could push the total to $3 million. Elliott's re-signing came after the 2024 NFL Draft in late April, providing the team with stability in the backfield.
Big names like Derrick Henry, who inked a two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens, were out of reach for Dallas. Henry's deal includes $9 million fully guaranteed and incentives that could raise its value to $20 million. Addressing the issue, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stated, "I like our personnel. We couldn't afford Derrick Henry." This sentiment was echoed multiple times, emphasizing the team's financial constraints and commitment to a balanced roster.
The cautious approach by the Cowboys extends to their current cap situation, as they face a $6.04 million cap charge in 2024 due to the post-June 1 release designation of Ezekiel Elliott. This strategic move showcases the team's careful management of finances in pursuit of long-term stability.
Despite these moves, Dallas has struggled in the running game. The Cowboys currently rank 30th in the NFL in rushing, averaging a mere 73.7 yards per game. Their running backs have amassed only 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. With a deficit of 74 rushing yards over expectation, the Cowboys are performing better than only the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins in this category.
By comparison, Derrick Henry has been thriving in Baltimore. With 281 rushing yards, Henry ranks fifth in the NFL and is tied for the lead in rushing touchdowns with four. His average of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation positions him among the league's elite running backs.
The Philadelphia Eagles, meanwhile, have made their own significant moves, most notably making Landon Dickerson the highest-paid offensive guard in the NFL in March. This strategic roster enhancement places additional pressure on Dallas to succeed in the highly competitive NFC East.
Reflecting on his contract and team preferences, Derrick Henry shared on the “Pivot” podcast, "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." He added, "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is."
Jerry Jones has made it clear that while high-profile signings like Henry were out of reach, Dallas is "all in" for the upcoming 2024 season. This commitment indicates that the Cowboys are focused on building a cohesive and competitive team, even if it means taking a more measured approach in free agency.
The Cowboys' strategy may not have garnered the headlines that other teams have achieved with splashy signings, but their prudent management and targeted acquisitions underline a long-term vision aimed at sustained success. As the season progresses, it will become evident whether this conservative approach was the right path for Dallas.
In a league where bold moves often dominate the news, the Cowboys' strategic restraint could ultimately prove to be a masterstroke or a missed opportunity. Only time will tell.