3 Cowboys who must perform in 2022 ahead of contract decisions
When you’re a member of the Dallas Cowboys, all eyes are on you. As a player on America’s Team, your best is always expected and the critics won’t let you slip up. While this is true for everybody on the roster, some players are at more risk than others heading into 2022. There are some veterans who may lose their roster spots to younger, more talented guys.
But, more importantly, there are Cowboys who are up for outs in their contract or at the end of their current contracts altogether in 2023. That means, if they don’t perform this season, they could get the ax from the front office. To be clear, there are certainly players not on this list who need to have big years in 2022. However, where they are at in their contracts may make them safer than others.
For these three players, a future with the Cowboys is on the line if they don’t have great stats this season.
3 Cowboys players who must perform in 2022 ahead of contract decisions
3. Dante Fowler Jr., Defensive End
After struggling to find success in either of his two years in Atlanta after an 11.5 sack season with Los Angeles in 2019, Dante Fowler Jr. is getting another chance likely thanks to his former coach Dan Quinn. The two have a strong history and Quinn needs help on his squad to replace the absence of Randy Gregory.
Although Fowler blames his struggles with the Falcons (only 17 games started, 7.5 sacks, and 59 tackles in two years) on injuries, the veteran was put on a one-year, prove-it deal with Dallas. The former third overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, Fowler just hasn’t lived up to his potential. He’s hoping he can do that in year six with the Cowboys.
New Cowboys DE Dante Fowler blamed his low production in Atlanta on injuries the past two years. He is focused on his health in Dallas to stay on the field so he can live up to his potential.
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) April 18, 2022
Fowler is currently listed as the starting defensive end alongside DeMarcus Lawrence, but if Sam Williams is all the Cowboys are hyping him up to be, he could easily lose that starting spot. He will also have to compete with recently re-signed edge rusher Dorance Armstrong.
The good news for Fowler is that the Cowboys have set him up to gain if he’s successful. His contract details have many bonuses including per-game played and sack totals contingent on the Cowboys making the playoffs. He likely won’t be asked to take on replacing Gregory on his own with several defensive end additions. However, if Fowler doesn’t prove himself as a trusted veteran, his first year could be his last with Dallas.