In a deliberate yet somewhat reserved approach during the initial stages of this year's free agency, the Dallas Cowboys have made strategic moves prioritizing fiscal caution. This stands in stark contrast to other teams' more aggressive tactics. Amid the reshuffling, the addition of 32-year-old linebacker Eric Kendricks has emerged as the highlight of their offseason acquisitions.
Kendricks inked a one-year deal worth $3 million, with incentives potentially boosting the total to $3.5 million. This move fills the void left by the retiring Leighton Vander Esch, a crucial gap in the Cowboys' defensive lineup.
Running Back Conundrum
One of the key concerns for the Cowboys has been their running game. With their running backs collectively amassing only 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, they average a modest 3.5 yards per carry. Currently ranked 30th in the NFL in rushing, the team averages merely 73.7 yards per game. Furthermore, the Cowboys are minus 74 rushing yards over expectation, faring better only than the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins.
To address this, the Cowboys re-signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract worth $1.255 million. Additionally, Ezekiel Elliott marked his return to Dallas, securing a one-year, $2 million contract, which could rise to $3 million through incentives. This comeback followed the 2024 NFL Draft in late April.
Missed Opportunity with Derrick Henry
Despite these efforts, the Cowboys faced tough decisions alongside financial constraints. Derrick Henry, a coveted player in free agency, signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens at the start of free agency in March. Henry’s contract includes $9 million guaranteed, with potential incentives pushing the value to $20 million.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones made it clear that acquiring Henry was beyond the team's financial reach. "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry," Jones stated unequivocally. His sentiment echoes through multiple instances, highlighting the fiscal reality facing Dallas.
Henry himself expressed a willingness to join the Cowboys but acknowledged the circumstances. "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," Henry commented on the "Pivot" podcast. He further added, "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is."
Comparing Performances
As the season progresses, Henry's performance with the Ravens sets a benchmark. With 281 rushing yards, he ranks fifth in the NFL and is tied at the top for rushing touchdowns with four. With an average of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation, Henry continues to demonstrate his elite status.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys' strategic moves come with future financial implications. They face a $6.04 million cap charge in 2024 due to the post-June 1 release designation of Ezekiel Elliott. These decisions underscore the balance Dallas seeks to maintain between immediate performance needs and long-term fiscal responsibility.
Looking ahead, Jones has proclaimed that Dallas would be "all in" for the 2024 season. This forward-looking perspective hints at potential future maneuvers to strengthen the team while navigating the intricate landscape of NFL finances. With a prudent approach and strategic re-signings, the Cowboys aim to bolster their roster while judiciously managing their cap space.
Ultimately, Dallas's conservative approach in free agency reflects a blend of fiscal pragmatism and a commitment to building a competitive team within the constraints of the salary cap. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how these calculated moves translate on the field.