In the world of NFL free agency, the Dallas Cowboys have chosen a tactically conservative route this year, emphasizing measured decisions over headline-grabbing moves. While other teams made headlines with significant acquisitions, the Cowboys' strategy was markedly restrained, yet deliberate.
Key Additions and Retained Talent
The standout addition to the Cowboys' roster is 32-year-old linebacker Eric Kendricks, signed to a one-year deal valued at $3 million, with potential incentives pushing the contract's value to $3.5 million. Kendricks arrives to fill the significant void left by the retiring Leighton Vander Esch, ensuring the Cowboys maintain veteran leadership on the defensive end.
In addressing their needs at the running back position, Dallas re-signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract worth $1.255 million. This move reflects a commitment to retaining familiarity and continuity within their roster, particularly critical in a position often plagued by injury and turnover.
Notably, Ezekiel Elliott makes a return to Dallas on a one-year, $2 million contract, with incentives that could elevate the deal's worth to $3 million. Elliott's re-signing followed the 2024 NFL Draft in late April, signaling a strategic decision influenced by the draft's outcomes.
The Derrick Henry Scenario
As teams made aggressive moves in free agency, the Cowboys were notably absent from the pursuit of marquee running back Derrick Henry, who ultimately inked a two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens at the start of free agency in March. Henry's deal includes $9 million fully guaranteed and the potential to escalate to $20 million with incentives.
Reflecting on the possibility of joining the Cowboys, Henry candidly 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, the ever-vocal owner of the Dallas Cowboys, responded to the speculation with straightforward clarity, stating, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry." This sentiment was repeated emphatically, underscoring the team's financial strategy and their prioritization of cap management over potential superstar additions.
Financial and Performance Considerations
The Cowboys' cautious fiscal management is further highlighted by the $6.04 million cap charge they face in 2024 due to the post-June 1 release designation of Ezekiel Elliott. This financial burden underscores the complexities inherent in managing player contracts and cap space in today's NFL.
From a performance standpoint, the Cowboys' current running game metrics highlight the challenges they face. Ranking 30th in the NFL in rushing, with an average of just 73.7 yards per game, their running backs have combined for a mere 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. This lackluster performance positions Dallas only above the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins in terms of rushing yards over expectation, with a dismal minus 74 yards.
In stark contrast, Derrick Henry's performance has been exemplary. Accumulating 281 rushing yards, he ranks fifth in the NFL, tied at the top for rushing touchdowns with four to his name. His average of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation positions him amongst the league's elite backs, validating the Ravens' investment in him.
Looking Ahead
As the Cowboys navigate their path forward, Jerry Jones has publicly proclaimed that Dallas will be "all in" for the 2024 season. This declaration sets an ambitious tone for the organization, as they aim to balance fiscal prudence with competitive aspirations in the ever-shifting landscape of the NFL.
The coming season will undoubtedly test the mettle of the Cowboys’ strategic decisions, their internal development, and their ability to compete against more aggressive teams. The measured approach in free agency, juxtaposed with the commitment to key players, constitutes a high-stakes gamble that Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys hope will pay dividends on the field.