Examining the Dallas Cowboys' Conservative Free Agency Approach
In this year's free agency period, the Dallas Cowboys chose a conservative approach, standing in stark contrast to the bold moves made by other NFL teams. While teams like the Baltimore Ravens secured star players such as Derrick Henry on substantial contracts, the Cowboys opted for more restrained expenditures, reflecting their strategized caution.
The most significant addition to the Cowboys' roster was the signing of veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks. At 32 years old, Kendricks inked a one-year deal valued at $3 million, with possible incentives pushing the contract's total value to $3.5 million. Kendricks is expected to fill the substantial void left by the retiring Leighton Vander Esch, bringing his experience and leadership to the Cowboys' defense.
Addressing their need at running back, Dallas re-signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract worth $1.255 million. Additionally, Ezekiel Elliott made a return to Dallas on a one-year, $2 million contract, which could escalate to $3 million through performance incentives following this year's NFL Draft in late April. However, the Cowboys face a $6.04 million cap charge in 2024 due to the post-June 1 release designation of Elliott. Despite their prudent financial management, the Cowboys still have notable cap considerations in the forthcoming seasons.
Meanwhile, Derrick Henry commanded a lucrative two-year, $16 million deal with the Ravens at the onset of free agency in March, including $9 million fully guaranteed and potential incentives pushing the deal's value up to $20 million. Henry's early season performance has been nothing short of impressive, accumulating 281 rushing yards, placing him fifth in the NFL, and matching the lead for rushing touchdowns with four. Henry's output of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation further cements his status among the league's elite backs.
For the Cowboys, the rushing game remains an area of concern. Dallas ranks 30th in the NFL in rushing, averaging just 73.7 yards per game. Their running backs have managed a mere 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. This positions the Cowboys at minus 74 rushing yards over expectation, with only the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins faring worse. Such statistics underscore the critical need for performance improvements in their running game.
The decision not to pursue Henry was not taken lightly but was ultimately influenced by financial constraints. Henry himself voiced his thoughts on the "Pivot" podcast, stating, "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." Reflecting on the Cowboys' stance, Henry added, "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is."
Affirming the financial prudence of the Cowboys, owner Jerry Jones remarked, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry," juxtaposing the fiscal realities with roster building strategies. Jones reiterated his sentiment by emphasizing, "I like our personnel. We couldn't afford Derrick Henry." The repetition of his message elucidates the economic calculations shaping the team's assembly.
Despite the conservative measures in free agency, Jerry Jones has asserted that the Cowboys are committed to competing vigorously in the upcoming season. Proclaiming that Dallas would be "all in" for the 2024 season, Jones's assurance indicates a balance between financial responsibility and competitive ambition.
As the season progresses, the Cowboys' strategic decisions in free agency will continue to be scrutinized, particularly in light of their running game struggles and cap management. The blend of seasoned additions and a focus on sustainable roster investments highlights the delicate equilibrium the Cowboys aim to achieve in their pursuit of NFL success.