Conservative Approach in Free Agency Defines Dallas Cowboys' Strategy
As NFL free agency unfolded this year, the Dallas Cowboys maintained a conservative approach while other teams made headline-making moves. With a focus on calculated spending, the Cowboys' decisions underscored their careful strategy.
The most notable addition to the Cowboys' roster came with the signing of 32-year-old linebacker Eric Kendricks. This one-year deal, valued at $3 million with potential incentives increasing its worth to $3.5 million, aims to fill the gap left by Leighton Vander Esch's retirement. Kendricks' veteran presence is expected to bolster the Cowboys' defense without breaking the bank.
To address their backfield concerns, the Cowboys re-signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract worth $1.255 million. This move was essential given Dallas's ranking of 30th in the NFL for rushing, averaging just 73.7 yards per game. Additionally, Ezekiel Elliott returned to the team on a one-year contract worth $2 million, potentially increasing to $3 million through incentives. However, this deal carries a future cap charge of $6.04 million in 2024 due to Elliott's post-June 1 release designation.
Derrick Henry's Signing with Baltimore Ravens
In more headline-grabbing news, Derrick Henry inked a significant contract with the Baltimore Ravens at the start of free agency in March. The two-year, $16 million deal includes $9 million fully guaranteed, with the potential to reach $20 million through incentives. This signing adds a proven and elite performer to Baltimore's roster, as Henry currently ranks fifth in the NFL with 281 rushing yards and ties for the top spot with four rushing touchdowns. His average of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation highlights his status as one of the league’s premier running backs.
Henry's move to Baltimore clearly demonstrated the financial and strategic constraints facing the Cowboys. Reflecting on potential destinations, Henry mentioned 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." However, he added, "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is." Cowboys owner Jerry Jones echoed this sentiment, stating, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry."
Addressing Roster Needs with Budget Constraints
Despite the absence of marquee signings, Jones expressed confidence in the Cowboys' existing talent. "I like our personnel. We couldn't afford Derrick Henry," he reiterated. The emphasis on financial prudence reflects broader challenges within the organization. By structuring Henry's potential contract differently—such as through a two-year, $14 million deal with additional dummy years—the Cowboys' cap number for 2024 could have been reduced to $2.595 million. Nevertheless, financial pragmatism took precedence.
While missing out on Henry, the Cowboys' commitment to incremental improvements remains clear. Their running backs have managed only 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry, and the team is minus 74 rushing yards over expectation. The re-signing of Dowdle and the return of Elliott aim to address this shortfall.
Looking Forward
The road ahead for Dallas will be challenging but promising. Jones has declared the Cowboys to be "all in" for the 2024 season, signaling a potential shift in strategy and urgency. However, the emphasis remains on disciplined roster management and strategic signings.
The 2024 NFL Draft and subsequent training camps will be pivotal in shaping the Cowboys' season and addressing critical roster needs. As financial realities constrain some options, the organization’s ability to maximize return on investment and develop existing talent will be crucial. Whether Dallas can transform their calculated approach into on-field success remains to be seen, but the foundation has been laid for a measured and thoughtful path forward.