4 players the Dallas Cowboys shouldn’t re-sign in 2021

Andy Dalton, QB

When the Dallas Cowboys inked Andy Dalton to a one-year deal worth up to $7 million, of which $3 million was guaranteed, it appeared they were getting the best backup quarterback in the NFL. And five games into the regular season, the Cowboys were glad they did as starter Dak Prescott suffered a season-ending ankle injury.

Dalton immediately came into the Week Five matchup against the New York Giants and led Dallas to a come-from-behind victory. But a concussion and a landing on the reserve/COVID-19 list hindered the three-time Pro Bowl passer from hitting his stride under center in Dallas.

The 33-year old veteran passer would eventually lead the Cowboys to three victories in the team’s final four games. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to win the lowly NFC East.

Scheduled once again to be an unrestricted free agent, Dalton figures to find a better situation to become a potential starter elsewhere. And with the salary cap expected to drop plus the Cowboys still needing to either sign Prescott to a long-term contract or another franchise tag, Dallas likely doesn’t have the money to retain Dalton … and shouldn’t really attempt to do so.

Backup Garrett Gilbert proved his worth in his lone start for Dallas in 2020. Throwing for 243 yards, one touchdown, one interception, Gilbert nearly led the Cowboys to a win over the undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers in Week NIne. The 29-year old is already under contract for 2021 and at a fraction of the cost re-signing Dalton would incur.