NFL Free Agency isn't over yet, but we're through the first month and a large majority of players have already signed. Though they still have just a few needs, the Dallas Cowboys are among the teams that are pretty much done being active on the open market. The front office didn't have much cap space to work with, but they found a way to make a few moves.
This grades include trades, retirements, signings, re-signings and releases. With that in mind, here's our free agency grade for the Cowboys.
Key Additions/Re-Signings:
QB Kellen Moore, WR Terrance Williams, OG Jonathan Cooper, CB Nolan Carroll
The re-signing of Terrance Williams was a needed move for Dak Prescott and the passing game, while Moore and Cooper provide depth at their respective positions. However, the signing of Carroll was the biggest and most impactful thing they could do. Cornerback was a major, major need given personnel losses at the position (more on that in a second), and he gives them a legitimate, reliable starter.
Key Losses/Cuts:
RB Lance Dunbar (Rams), OG Ronald Leary (Broncos), DL Jack Crawford (Falcons), DT Terrell McClain (Redskins), LB Ryan Davis (Bills), CB Brandon Carr (Ravens), CB Morris Claiborne (Jets), SS Barry Church (Jaguars), SS J.J. Wilcox (Buccaneers)
Just look at the sheer quantity of players the Cowboys lost, particularly defensively. Dallas knew there were going to be several players they simply couldn't afford. They had planned for this, but now lack depth - and have a huge, huge need in the secondary. It was put the pressure on the front office to draft well, and then pressure will be put on the rookies to produce in immediate playing time.
Grade: C
The Cowboys' signings were good, but the grade can only be so high given the quality of players and amount of players they lost. Without much cap space left, there's nothing Dallas can really do to correct it, either.
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