3 Cowboys free agents who could be forced into retirement

1. NT Johnathan Hankins

Hankins reportedly contemplated retirement last offseason to become a full-time family man. He ultimately returned to the Cowboys on a one-year deal. If the latest free agency rumblings are accurate, Hankins could be back with Dallas for a third season.

Per Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, the Cowboys are not expected to make a major splash in free agency. Surprise, surprise, right? Theoretically, they could have enough wiggle room to re-sign Hankins after the initial frenzy.

Entering his age-32 season, though, Hankins could call it a career after 11 seasons. He likely still has value around the league as a run-stuffer, but he hasn't played a full season since 2020. It's fair to ponder if Big Hank wants to endure another arduous season and potentially rehabbing another injury.

At the very least, Hankins won't care for going through OTAs and mandatory minicamp. Don't be surprised if we get to training camp in late-July and Hankins is still a free agent. At that point, retirement would be a real possibility.

More Cowboys analysis