Dallas Cowboys: Ten Remaining Free Agents That Make Sense
Dec 14, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Dallas Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett (left) and owner Jerry Jones (right) talk during warm ups before a game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
The Dallas Cowboys remained on the sidelines for two days following the opening of the NFL’s free agency market last Tuesday. The Cowboys’ front office allowed most of the big name, high-priced free agents to get scooped up by other teams before they began bringing in bargain priced role players.
But now that the main rush is over, will the Cowboys be able to find a gem or two in the scattered remains that currently is free agency? I believe they can. And hopefully, at a reasonable price as well.
Focusing mostly on defense (and not on the Cowboys’ own potential returning players), here are ten current free agents that I believe would fill a void for Dallas while also being relative bargains for their dwindling salary cap.
Dec 21, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Tramon Williams (38) in zone coverage against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Green Bay Packers defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-3. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
1. Tramon Williams, Cornerback
Age: 32
Drafted: Undrafted, 2006
Previous Team: Green Bay Packers
2014 Stats: 71 tkls, 13 pds, 3 ints
2014 Salary: $6.9 million
2014 PFF Position Rank: 41st
Analysis: Williams is the top cornerback left in free agency and is currently in high demand. Despite being 32 years old, he recorded his best two seasons as a professional in 2013 and 2014. The 2010 Pro Bowler and former Super Bowl champion is simply the best on the board, that’s why he’s landed on this list.
With question marks surrounding the future for starter Brandon Carr, the injured Morris Claiborne and free agent Sterling Moore; it’s a simple numbers game that Dallas needs to find more corners. Bringing in Williams means bringing in the best available. Unfortunately, because of his current demand, his price tag may be more than the Cowboys are willing to pay.
Update: After the publishing of this article, Williams signed a three-year, $21 million deal with the Cleveland Browns.
Next: A Pass Rushing Restricted Free Agent