In a move that seems to define their approach during this year’s free agency, the Dallas Cowboys maintained a conservative stance as other NFL teams executed bolder strategies. The Cowboys’ restrained tactics are evident in their roster adjustments, notably highlighted by the signing of linebacker Eric Kendricks and the re-signing of running back Rico Dowdle.
Cowboys Sign Eric Kendricks
The Dallas Cowboys’ most significant addition this offseason is 32-year-old linebacker Eric Kendricks, who joined on a one-year deal valued at $3 million. The contract includes potential incentives that could bring its value up to $3.5 million. Kendricks steps in to fill the role left vacant by the retiring Leighton Vander Esch, bringing his veteran experience to the Cowboys’ defense.
Running Back Decisions
Running back Rico Dowdle was retained with a one-year contract worth $1.255 million, a move that underscores Dallas' intention to stabilize its backfield with familiar faces. Interestingly, Ezekiel Elliott's return to Dallas post-2024 NFL Draft on a one-year, $2 million deal, which can increase to $3 million through incentives, adds depth to their running back roster. However, the Cowboys face a $6.04 million cap charge in 2024 due to Elliott's post-June 1 release designation.
Derrick Henry's Path to Baltimore
Elsewhere in the NFL, Derrick Henry signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens at the onset of free agency. His deal includes $9 million fully guaranteed, with potential earnings reaching up to $20 million through incentives. Henry’s impressive statistics this season—with 281 rushing yards ranking fifth in the NFL and an average of 5.0 yards per carry—underscore the Ravens' significant investment in him. Despite this, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stated, "I like our personnel. We couldn't afford Derrick Henry." This sentiment encapsulates Dallas' more calculated approach during the free agency period.
Rushing Woes for Dallas
The Cowboys’ ground game has been far from stellar. They rank 30th in the NFL with an average of just 73.7 rushing yards per game. Their running backs have cumulatively achieved only 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging a meager 3.5 yards per carry. This underwhelming performance reflects in their standing, being only above the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins in rushing yards over expectation, with a deficit of 74 yards.
Notable Quotes on Free Agency Moves
Derrick Henry, in a candid revelation on the "Pivot" podcast, reflected on his free agency journey: "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." Despite his interest in Dallas, Henry admitted, "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is." Jerry Jones’ repeated assertions, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry," further illustrate the financial constraints influencing Dallas' decisions.
Jerry Jones' Vision for 2024
Despite these cautious moves, Jones has set a clear target for the Cowboys. He proclaimed Dallas would be "all in" for the 2024 season, suggesting that the team’s conservative strategy this year might be laying the groundwork for more aggressive maneuvers next season. As Dallas aims to improve its rushing ranking, the deliberate choice to forgo high-profile signings like Henry may ultimately be a stepping stone towards a more robust strategy in the near future.
As the current season unfolds, the Cowboys’ approach will undoubtedly be scrutinized by fans and analysts alike. Their ability to strategize under financial constraints and still remain competitive will be pivotal in determining if this year's conservative tactics will pay off in the long run.