Dallas Cowboys' Conservative Free Agency Strategy Results in Modest Additions
Through the initial stages of this year's free agency, the Dallas Cowboys have notably adopted a conservative approach, opting for calculated signings while other teams made more aggressive moves. This strategy was underscored by their most significant acquisition: 32-year-old linebacker Eric Kendricks, who was signed to a one-year deal valued at $3 million, with potential incentives pushing the contract's total to $3.5 million. Kendricks is expected to fill the void left by the retiring Leighton Vander Esch, adding experience and stability to the Cowboys' defense.
Addressing needs in the backfield, the Cowboys re-signed running back Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract worth $1.255 million. Meanwhile, Ezekiel Elliott made a return to Dallas on a one-year, $2 million deal, which has the potential to increase to $3 million with incentives. Elliott's return came after the 2024 NFL Draft in late April, signaling the team's commitment to maintaining depth and familiarity in their backfield.
The Derrick Henry Miss
While the Cowboys made strategic signings, the Baltimore Ravens made waves by signing top running back Derrick Henry to a two-year, $16 million contract at the start of free agency in March. Henry’s deal includes $9 million fully guaranteed and the potential to reach $20 million with incentives, marking a significant investment in bolstering the Ravens' rushing attack.
Henry's potential move to Dallas was a topic of interest among Cowboys fans. On the "Pivot" podcast, Henry reflected on his free agency journey, saying, "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, Henry also noted, "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is."
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones provided a straightforward rationale for the team's decision, explaining, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry." This candid admission highlights the financial constraints that influenced the Cowboys' conservative strategy. Jones also expressed confidence in the current roster, stating, "I like our personnel."
Impact on the Rushing Game
As the season progresses, the impact of the Cowboys' free agency choices becomes more apparent. Dallas currently ranks 30th in the NFL in rushing, averaging a meager 73.7 yards per game. The team's running backs have accumulated only 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. This performance places the Cowboys among the league's bottom-tier rushing teams, with a rushing yards over expectation statistic of minus 74, ranking only above the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins.
Derrick Henry, on the other hand, continues to demonstrate his elite status. With 281 rushing yards, Henry ranks fifth in the NFL and ties at the top for rushing touchdowns with four to his name. His impressive average of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation cements his position as one of the league's premier running backs.
Financial Constraints and Future Prospects
The financial decisions made by the Cowboys also have future implications. The team faces a $6.04 million cap charge in 2024 due to the post-June 1 release designation of Ezekiel Elliott. This cap management strategy underscores the financial tightrope teams walk when balancing current performance with future flexibility.
The Philadelphia Eagles' move to make Landon Dickerson the NFL’s highest-paid offensive guard in March demonstrates how financial prioritization varies across teams. In comparison, structuring a two-year, $14 million contract for Henry with three dummy years could have reduced his cap number for 2024 to $2.595 million, offering an alternative way teams navigate cap constraints.
As the Cowboys forge ahead, Jerry Jones has proclaimed that Dallas would be "all in" for the 2024 season. The blend of seasoned veterans, like Kendricks and Elliott, effort to backfilling crucial positions, and ongoing financial strategy aims to create a competitive edge. While the conservative approach in free agency might not have produced headline-grabbing additions, the Cowboys remain poised for the challenges ahead with a calculated and strategic mindset.