Five Cowboys players who might be finished in Dallas

#4. Maliek Collins, DT

The unheralded member of the now legendary Cowboys 2016 draft class, defensive tackle Maliek Collins is likely to become another causality of the team’s inability to pay everyone this offseason.

The 24-year old Collins appeared to be on the brink of a breakout season in Dallas after a strong showing in training camp in 2019. And the fact he was in the final year of his rookie contract made it the perfect time for him to fulfill the potential he flashed in his first season when he posted a career-high 5.0 sacks, the second-highest total on the team that year.

Unfortunately, Collins all but disappeared during the regular season again. And his inconsistent contributions have been an ongoing issue that likely means he’s played his last game in Dallas.

Collins put up decent numbers last season, recording 20 total tackles and 4.0 sacks as a 16-game starter. The latter being his highest sack total since his rookie year. But will that be enough to justify re-signing him?

Injuries have certainly plagued Collins’ short career in Dallas. Yet, under new defensive coordinator Mike Nolan, perhaps some new ideas and techniques could unlock his potential. But considering the Cowboys’ current free agent situation, it’s hard to justify paying a player on his potential alone.