In a move characterized by strategic conservatism through the initial stages of this year's free agency, the Dallas Cowboys have proceeded with calculated decisions while other NFL teams have pursued high-profile acquisitions with greater fervor.
Key Additions and Contracts
The most notable enhancement to the Cowboys' roster came with the signing of veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks. The 32-year-old joins the squad under a one-year deal valued at $3 million, with incentives potentially boosting the total to $3.5 million. Kendricks has been enlisted to fill the gap left by Leighton Vander Esch, who retired at the end of the previous season.
To address their needs at running back, the Cowboys opted to re-sign Rico Dowdle on a one-year contract worth $1.255 million. Additionally, in a somewhat surprising turn, Ezekiel Elliott returned to the Cowboys with a one-year, $2 million contract, potentially increasing to $3 million through performance incentives. Elliott rejoined the team shortly after the 2024 NFL Draft concluded in late April.
Meanwhile, Derrick Henry, one of the most sought-after running backs, finalized a two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens at the onset of free agency in March. Henry’s contract includes $9 million fully guaranteed and offers the possibility of up to $20 million with incentives. This development dispelled any speculation that Henry might don a Cowboys jersey.
Financial Repercussions and Team Performance
The Cowboys' decisions come with significant financial considerations. The team faces a $6.04 million cap charge in 2024, stemming from the post-June 1 release designation of Elliott. Dallas ranks 30th in the NFL for rushing, with an average of only 73.7 yards per game — a statistic reflecting notable shortcomings in their ground game.
To date, Cowboys' running backs have accumulated just 170 yards and one touchdown on 49 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry. The Cowboys are also minus 74 rushing yards over expectation, placing them only ahead of the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins in this metric.
Derrick Henry's Impact Elsewhere
Contrastingly, Derrick Henry has found early success with the Ravens. He has amassed 281 rushing yards, securing the fifth position in the NFL. Henry also tops the league in rushing touchdowns, with four to his name, and maintains an impressive average of 5.0 yards per carry. His 65 rushing yards over expectation reinforce his status among the NFL’s elite running backs.
Front Office Insights and Future Outlook
While fans speculated about the potential for Henry joining the Cowboys, Jerry Jones, the team's owner, clearly illuminated the financial constraints that prevented such a move. "I like our personnel. We couldn't afford Derrick Henry," Jones stated candidly, emphasizing the team's commitment to their current lineup despite the allure of a high-profile acquisition. "We couldn't afford Derrick Henry," he reiterated, highlighting the budgetary considerations in play.
Henry himself shed light on these developments during his appearance on the "Pivot" podcast, where he expressed his interest in joining either the Cowboys or the Ravens if he wasn't to remain in Tennessee. "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 remarked. He added that the Cowboys never made an overture towards him. "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is."
Looking forward, Jerry Jones has assured fans that Dallas will be "all in" for the 2024 season, a declaration that sets the stage for potentially aggressive moves ahead. As the offseason continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Cowboys will enhance their roster to rectify the current deficiencies, particularly in their rushing game, and prepare for a competitive season ahead.
Ultimately, the Cowboys’ approach reflects a broader strategy of prudent management and selective enhancements, as they navigate the complex landscape of NFL team building and salary cap constraints.