Five Cowboys players who might be finished in Dallas

#2. Jason Witten, TE

Longtime Cowboys tight end Jason Witten made it clear earlier this month that he wants to play in 2020. And that he’d like to finish his career in Dallas. Yet, since then, the Cowboys have been radio silent. So, what’s the hold up?

You have to believe in the past the Cowboys would have already hashed out a deal to keep one of their most valued and legendary players on the roster. Yet, there has been no movement since Witten made his public announcement wanting to continue his playing career.

So, why the delay? It appears longtime Cowboys beat reporter Calvin Watkins may have the answer. According to a tweet sent out by Watkins recently, Dallas is expected to re-sign veteran linebacker Sean Lee. But Witten? No so much.

So, why wouldn’t the Cowboys want to re-sign Witten? He recorded 63 receptions for 529 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games last season. And that’s very much on par with what he’s posted over the last few years of his playing career.

The argument that Witten’s presence is holding back 25-year old tight end Blake Jarwin doesn’t hold much water when you consider the latter posted better numbers (31 receptions, 365 yards, three touchdowns) and started in more games (7) than he did when Witten was retired in 2018.

But the reason the Cowboys might be electing to move on from Witten could be simpler than that. The 16-year veteran will turn 38-years old in May. With a new head coach and coaching staff in place, perhaps it’s been decided this is the best time to cut old ties and allow for a new era at the tight end position to begin. Unfortunately, that would mean Cowboy fans would have to stomach Witten playing in a different uniform in 2020.