The Dallas Cowboys were planning to lose some key contributors this offseason, as the big contracts handed out to stars on the offensive side of the ball was enough to force standout nickel cornerback Jourdan Lewis to look for greener pastures on the free agent market.
Lewis has been a perpetually underrated player throughout his Cowboys tenure, as his exploits in the slot and outside have flown under the radar from casual NFL fans. Dallas fans knew how good he was, but they won't be able to see him make plays in their defensive backfield anytime soon.
Lewis signed a new contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. New general manager James Gladstone is continuing Jacksonville's splashy ways in free agency, as he signed him to a three-year, $30 million contract with $20 million in guaranteed money.
The deal will compensate Lewis well, as he becomes the new highest-paid nickel cornerback in the league. After a sublime stint in Dallas, Lewis' time with the star on his helmet is officially over, which is just about the worst way for the Cowboys to kick off the offseason.
Cowboys lose CB Jourdan Lewis to Jaguars in free agency
Lewis, who arrived in Dallas as a third-round pick in 2017, started 64 games in eight seasons. The emotional leader recorded 9.5 sacks and 10 interceptions in that time, which proved his effectiveness as both a blitzer and playmaker outside. He won't be replaced easily.
With Lewis and Israel Mukuamu hitting free agency, cornerback has suddenly become a huge need for this Dallas team. Trevon Diggs is coming off an injury, DaRon Bland did not replicate the splendid 2023 season during his last campaign, and second-year Caelan Carson may not be ready for primetime just yet.
Losing Lewis is going to sting on the field, but his locker room presence will also need to be replaced. The vibes have been off throughout the offseason for Dallas, and moves like this will only serve to make the task of turning this roster around more difficult.
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