In a strategic yet quiet off-season, the Dallas Cowboys chose a conservative path while others in the league made significant moves. This approach, reflecting their early free agency strategy, saw the Cowboys making pinpoint decisions to fill specific gaps in their roster without splurging extensively.
Key Signings and Departures
The most notable addition to the Cowboys' lineup is the signing of Eric Kendricks. The 32-year-old linebacker joins Dallas on a one-year deal valued at $3 million, with incentives potentially driving up the contract to $3.5 million. Kendricks' arrival is intended to fill the void left by the retirement of Leighton Vander Esch, bringing a seasoned presence to the Cowboys' defensive unit.
Addressing their backfield needs, the Cowboys re-signed running back Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract valued at $1.255 million. Additionally, veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott returned to Dallas on a one-year, $2 million deal, with incentives that could raise the value to $3 million. This move came after the 2024 NFL Draft, positioning Elliott as a key figure in the Cowboys' rush offense despite his reduced role in recent times.
Derrick Henry's Move to Baltimore
While the Cowboys made strategic additions, they missed out on bringing Derrick Henry to their roster. Instead, Henry inked a two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens at the outset of free agency in March. This deal ensures he receives $9 million fully guaranteed and includes incentives that could elevate the total value to $20 million.
Commenting on the situation, Derrick Henry 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." However, Henry revealed that the Cowboys "never reached out," adding, "They weren't really interested. It is what it is." Cowboys owner Jerry Jones echoed this sentiment by saying, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry."
Cap Management and Running Game Performance
Cap management has been a critical focal point for the Cowboys. With a $6.04 million cap charge in 2024 resulting from the post-June 1 release designation of Ezekiel Elliott, Dallas has had to make calculated financial decisions. Jerry Jones has been clear about the team's constraints, stating, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry." Despite these challenges, Jones remains optimistic about the upcoming season, proclaiming that Dallas would be "all in" for 2024.
On the field, the Cowboys have struggled to establish their running game. Currently, they rank 30th in the NFL in rushing, with an average of just 73.7 yards per game. Their running backs have combined for only 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging a meager 3.5 yards per carry.
In stark contrast, Derrick Henry has been showcasing his elite skills with the Baltimore Ravens. Henry has amassed 281 rushing yards, positioning him fifth in the NFL, and he is tied for the top spot in rushing touchdowns with four. His impressive average of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation highlights the impact he could have brought to any team willing to secure his services.
Philadelphia Eagles and Other Moves
Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles made a significant financial commitment to their offensive line by making Landon Dickerson the NFL’s highest-paid offensive guard in March. Such moves indicate the varying approaches teams are taking this season, from high-stakes signings to conservative cap management strategies like those employed by the Cowboys.
The Cowboys have made their intentions clear through their calculated off-season moves and strategic signings. As the season progresses, the effectiveness of their conservative strategy will be put to the test, both on and off the field. With Jerry Jones’ declaration of being "all in" for 2024, the Cowboys' fans and the wider NFL community will be keenly watching how these decisions unfold in their quest for success.