Cowboys Planning Further Free Agent Moves

​As the Dallas Cowboys navigate the 2025 offseason, they are actively exploring opportunities to bolster their roster through strategic free-agent acquisitions. This approach marks a potential shift from their traditionally conservative free agency strategy, signaling a readiness to adopt more aggressive measures to remain competitive in the NFC.​

Evaluating Internal Free Agents

A critical aspect of the Cowboys’ offseason strategy involves decisions regarding their own free agents. Linebacker Eric Kendricks, who joined Dallas on a one-year, $3 million deal in 2024, delivered a solid performance with 88 tackles and three sacks. His veteran leadership and consistent play have sparked discussions about a possible extension. The outcome may hinge on defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer’s future with the team, as Kendricks has expressed a desire to continue working under his former head coach. ​

Cornerback Jourdan Lewis is another internal free agent under consideration. After signing a one-year, $2.8 million contract in 2024, Lewis had a standout season, achieving a career-high coverage grade and demonstrating his value in the secondary. Given the current depth concerns at cornerback, exacerbated by Trevon Diggs’ injury, retaining Lewis could provide stability and experience to the defensive backfield.

Addressing Key Roster Needs

The Cowboys have identified several positions requiring reinforcement, including running back, wide receiver depth behind CeeDee Lamb, cornerback depth, linebacker depth, and defensive line depth. Executive Vice President Stephen Jones has emphasized the importance of addressing these core needs in free agency to allow for a best-player-available approach in the draft. ​

At running back, the departure of Rico Dowdle and the additions of Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders have reshaped the backfield. However, there is ongoing debate about selecting a reliable and budget-friendly running back in the 2025 NFL Draft, with prospects like Kyle Monangai from Rutgers being considered for Day 3 selections. ​

Financial Flexibility and Cap Management

To facilitate these potential moves, the Cowboys are exploring various financial strategies to create cap space. Options include restructuring Dak Prescott’s contract, which could generate over $37 million, adjusting CeeDee Lamb’s deal for an additional $20 million, and extending Micah Parsons to free up another $18 million. These maneuvers, combined with the anticipated increase in the league-wide salary cap, would provide Dallas with the financial flexibility to pursue targeted free-agent signings. ​

Learning from Competitors

The Cowboys’ front office is also analyzing the strategies of conference rivals like the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers. The Eagles’ aggressive approach in acquiring veteran talent and the 49ers’ success in integrating young players are under consideration as Dallas seeks to refine its roster-building philosophy. Stephen Jones has highlighted the importance of finding a balance that aligns with the Cowboys’ core principles while enhancing their competitiveness. ​

Conclusion

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Dallas Cowboys are poised to make calculated moves in free agency to address critical roster needs and strengthen their competitive position. By evaluating internal free agents, exploring external acquisitions, and employing strategic financial management, the Cowboys aim to build a roster capable of contending in a challenging NFC landscape.