Dallas Cowboys Quietly Confident With FA Acquisitions

For once, the Dallas Cowboys have flown somewhat under the radar. There’s been no flashy free agency signings. The cash has been flashed in the NFC East; but not by Dallas. Top free agents will be suiting up in Dallas, but to play against the Cowboys.

Fans maybe stressing about the limited activity, but head coach Jason Garrett certainly isn’t. When questioned by the media at this week’s NFL Annual Meeting, Garrett gushed about the three Cowboys acquisitions.

Benson Mayowa, Defensive End

The Cowboys made a splash (in fact more of a tsunami) when they opted to sign Greg Hardy as a free agent last year. Hardy certainly made an impact on the team, maybe not as consistently as people wanted but his talent is evident. The fact he’s as disruptive in the dressing room as the field is where the issue lies.

Garrett and Stephen Jones haven’t hidden the fact they’re not looking to Hardy returning anytime soon. When questioned in February, Garrett repeatedly answered ‘Greg Hardy is a Free Agent’. Jerry Jones indicated just the opposite though, when earlier this week claiming the door is not closed on the pass rushers return.

Does the signing of Benson Mayowa as a free agent from the Raiders rule out a return for Hardy? Looking at the production, then surely not. Hardy has played over twice the number of games as Mayowa, had twenty times more sacks and made nearly seven times more tackles.

Mayowa is not proven by any stretch. But he is a typical Will McClay type recruit.

"“…we felt there was a clearly defined role for him…A younger developmental player who we think can add to the competition on the defensive line. We see a defined role for him. We felt like he was a good get for us.” Jason Garrett"

There’s always room for an extra defensive lineman on the Cowboys roster. George Selvie was a fine example of an unexciting journeyman finding production in Dallas. The same could be true here.

"“You see him bring some juice and he’s been a productive player for them in the role that he’s had. He can contribute on special teams.” Jason Garrett"

Next: Cedric Thornton