In a strategic move that underscores their conservative approach, the Dallas Cowboys have adopted a measured stance during this year's free agency, while other teams made more aggressive acquisitions. A standout signing for the Cowboys was the addition of veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks on a one-year deal worth $3 million, with potential incentives that could elevate the contract’s value to $3.5 million. Kendricks, at 32, is anticipated to plug the gap left by the retirement of Leighton Vander Esch.
Addressing Key Roles
Recognizing a critical need at the running back position, Dallas re-signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract valued at $1.255 million. The Cowboys also brought back Ezekiel Elliott, signing him to a one-year, $2 million contract, which includes incentives that could increase his earnings to $3 million, finalized shortly after the 2024 NFL Draft in late April.
The Cowboys' decision to pass on Derrick Henry, who secured a highly lucrative two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens, was a notable point of discussion. Henry's contract includes $9 million fully guaranteed and could potentially escalate to $20 million through incentives. Reflecting on the decision, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stated, "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry."
Challenging Rushing Statistics
The Cowboys’ current rushing statistics leave much to be desired, ranking 30th in the NFL with an average of just 73.7 yards per game. Their running backs have collectively achieved 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. These numbers put them at minus 74 rushing yards over expectation, placing them only above the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins.
In stark contrast, Derrick Henry has demonstrated exceptional performance with the Ravens, amassing 281 rushing yards to rank fifth in the NFL. His tally of four rushing touchdowns places him at the top, and his average of 5.0 yards per carry, along with 65 rushing yards over expectation, reaffirms his status among the league's elite running backs.
Financial Implications
The Cowboys’ budget constraints come into sharper focus when considering the $6.04 million cap charge they face in 2024 due to Ezekiel Elliott's post-June 1 release designation. This financial context clarifies why Dallas could not commit to Derrick Henry’s hefty contract.
Henry himself expressed a willingness to join the Cowboys, stating 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." Indicating that a deal was never close, he added, "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is."
Optimism and Future Goals
Despite the cautious approach in the recent free agency period, Jerry Jones has expressed confidence in the team’s future. "I like our personnel. We couldn't afford Derrick Henry," he reiterated, underscoring a commitment to building a competitive roster within financial constraints. In a bolder statement, he proclaimed that Dallas would be "all in" for the 2024 season.
As the Cowboys move forward, their strategic financial management and focus on player development will be crucial. While their conservative moves in free agency stand in contrast to the aggressive strategies of some rivals, the true measure of their success will be reflected in their on-field performance in the upcoming season.