3 former Cowboys who won’t live up to their new contracts

1. DE Dorance Armstrong

It was never expected that the Cowboys would retain Dorance Armstrong. While they did well to re-sign Armstrong two years ago, his stock has skyrocketed since then. Over the last three seasons, Armstrong accumulated 21 sacks, 109 pressures, 40 QB hits, 20 tackles for loss and 64 defensive stops against the run.

The production saw Armstrong score big on the open market. Signed by Dan Quinn to rejuvenate Washington's pass rush, Armstrong inked a three-year, $33 million contract. The deal has a max value of $45 million (!) and $22 million fully guaranteed.

While Armstrong is seemingly hitting his prime and could shine in a featured role, those terms, including his $11 million yearly salary, feel a bit rich. He's now in the range of established pass rushers like Matt Judon, Za'Darius Smith, Preston Smith and Leonard Floyd.

Even Armstrong's most ardent supporters would admit that's a big leap. It's one thing to be productive as a rotation player. It'll help playing alongside DTs Jonathan Allen and DaRon Payne, but time will tell if Armstrong is ready to be the kernel of a pass-rushing unit.

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