Five things the Cowboys got right and wrong in free agency

#5 – Right or Wrong? Rolando McClain

In my opinion, this was the most important contract to the entire puzzle. McClain’s presence doesn’t amplify Super Bowl contention, but with him on the field the team as a whole is a much better unit.

The eighth overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft signed a one-year deal worth $5 million. In 2014, he finished second place in the voting for NFL Comeback Player of the Year.

Despite playing only 11 games last season, he was ranked as the 13^th best player at the linebacker spot by Pro Football Focus.

In a lot of ways, McClain is the gravity in the defensive unit, allowing other players to flourish. Outside linebacker Sean Lee exploded back on the scene last year with McClain taking over the MIKE.

Lee was focused and precise in his return after a one-year absence. In 2015, he registered 128 tackles, 2.5 sacks, one interception and five pass deflections in 14 games.

The Cowboys are keeping a very talented individual in McClain, for a very fair price. The six-foot-four linebacker turns 27 in July.

Right or Wrong?

Very right.

Arguably the most important signing in the free agency, the Cowboys can build the defense, particularly the pass rush, around the middle linebacker who holds his own when he is on the field.

If the dynamic duel in McClain and Lee can remain healthy and stay on the field together, expect McClain’s one-year, $5 million to be pennies in terms of ROI.

Next: Cowboys 2016 Free Agency - 15 potential new targets

Thank you for reading the above article. It’s our sincere hope you’ll visit our site often as we work really hard to provide Cowboys fans with fresh, daily content about their favorite team. Please feel free to take part in further discussions about this topic below in our comment section. All we ask is that each participant is respectful in both their responses and towards others. Thanks again and…Go Cowboys!