In the early stages of this year's free agency, the Dallas Cowboys maintained a conservative approach while other teams made more significant moves. Despite the buzz of the offseason, the Cowboys' most notable addition was the signing of 32-year-old linebacker Eric Kendricks. Kendricks was brought in on a one-year deal worth $3 million, with incentives potentially increasing the contract's value to $3.5 million. His arrival is intended to fill the gap left by the retiring Leighton Vander Esch, a critical void the Cowboys needed to address.
Addressing the Roster
In addition to Kendricks, the Cowboys made strategic moves to shore up their running back position. They re-signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year contract valued at $1.255 million. This re-signing helped to establish depth in a position that has seen its share of instability. Additionally, former star running back Ezekiel Elliott returned to the team on a one-year, $2 million deal, which could escalate to $3 million through performance incentives. Elliott's re-signing followed the 2024 NFL Draft in late April, marking a familiar return in hopes of bolstering the Cowboys' running game.
Challenges in the Run Game
Despite these acquisitions, the Cowboys have struggled significantly in the running game. Dallas ranks 30th in the NFL, averaging a mere 73.7 rushing yards per game—a statistic far below expectations for a team with playoff aspirations. The Cowboys' running backs have collectively managed just 170 yards and a single touchdown on 49 carries, averaging 3.5 yards per attempt. Furthermore, they are minus-74 rushing yards over expectation, ranking only above the Chicago Bears and the Miami Dolphins, an indication of their struggles on the ground.
Meanwhile, Derrick Henry has been making headlines elsewhere. Henry signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens at the start of free agency in March. His deal includes $9 million fully guaranteed and potential incentives pushing the contract's value to $20 million. Henry's performance has justified the Ravens' investment—he ranks fifth in the NFL with 281 rushing yards and is tied for the lead with four rushing touchdowns. His impressive average of 5.0 yards per carry and 65 rushing yards over expectation positions him among the league's elite backs.
Financial Realities
The Cowboys' restrained approach in free agency was underscored by their financial constraints. Despite their desire to bring in a high-profile back like Derrick Henry, the Cowboys owner Jerry Jones was candid. "I like our personnel. We couldn't afford Derrick Henry," Jones admitted, reiterating the importance of prudent financial management. The decision to pass on Henry also carried a looming financial repercussion. The Cowboys are facing a $6.04 million cap charge in 2024 due to the post-June 1 release designation of Ezekiel Elliott.
Henry's Perspective
Derrick Henry himself expressed his feelings when discussing his move to Baltimore. On the "Pivot" podcast, Henry shared, "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." Unfortunately for Cowboys fans, the opportunity for Henry to wear the star never materialized. "They never reached out, you know what I'm saying? ... They weren't really interested. It is what it is," Henry remarked, reflecting on the missed connection with the Cowboys. Despite this, the Cowboys remained firm in their strategy, focusing on internal growth and financial prudence.
Looking Ahead
While Dallas's conservative approach may have left some fans yearning for bigger moves, the team's long-term strategy focuses on sustainability and prudent management. The returns of crucial players like Kendricks and Elliott mark a commitment to maintaining a competitive roster without overspending.
As the Cowboys prepare for the 2024 season, Jerry Jones has expressed confidence in the team's direction. Jones proclaimed that Dallas would be "all in" for the upcoming season, signaling a blend of optimism and cautious planning. Whether this strategy will pay off remains to be seen, but the Cowboys are positioning themselves for a season of calculated moves both on and off the field.