The Dallas Cowboys are shifting their approach in free agency, embracing a “selectively aggressive” strategy that prioritizes making smart moves rather than overspending. According to executive vice president Stephen Jones, the team aims to fill key needs before the draft while also weighing options in free agency.
Signing All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons to a long-term extension is at the top of the list for the Cowboys. Parsons will play on his fifth-year option ($21 million) and potentially earn $34 million per year in the new deal, making him one of the highest-paid defensive players in football.
Last offseason, the Cowboys prioritized retaining quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, but those deals were secured in August and September. Jones attributes the delays to external factors, such as other receivers trying to secure deals at the same time.
The team has had productive discussions with defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa regarding a long-term deal, although details are scarce. The Cowboys will also be busy negotiating with agents representing free agents like DeMarcus Lawrence, Rico Dowdle, Jourdan Lewis, Chauncey Golston, and Israel Mukuamu.
With the NFL salary cap set to increase to $277.5-281.5 million, Jones expects this added space to give the team more flexibility in restructures and free agent signings. The Cowboys will aim to open up $57 million in cap room by reworking contracts with Prescott and Lamb, allowing them to be more “selectively aggressive” in their pursuit of upgrades.
“We’re going to look at everything we can,” Jones said, emphasizing the team’s commitment to improving their football team and achieving success this season.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44000404/dallas-cowboys-selectively-aggressive-free-agency