3 players the Cowboys were right to move on from in 2024

3. S Jayron Kearse

Like Gallup, Jayron Kearse was also a fan favorite finding new life in Dallas after spending his first few years in Minnesota and Detroit. The Cowboys signed him in 2021 as their new starter at safety to go opposite of Donovan Wilson. However, just a few days into training camp the team signed Malik Hooker, who they had been talking with that offseason.

Despite Hooker's arrival, Kearse started the most games of his career that season with 15. Dan Quinn found ways to keep both safeties on the field, helping the Cowboys form one of their best safety groups in years. Kearse also had a career-high two interceptions that year.

His role diminished a bit that past two seasons, but Kearse was regarding as one of the best players in the secondary. However, Dallas could not afford to keep all three safeties heading into this offseason. This largely became evident last offseason when the team re-signed Wilson to a three-year, $21 million contract. With him and Hooker on the books, Kearse was the odd man out.

While Kearse's veteran presence will be missed, the team has other help in the secondary. With Mike Zimmer as defensive coordinator now, Markquese Bell will likely move back to safety after playing linebacker this past season due to injuries. Israel Mukuamu also received more playing time this past season and with his 6'4" frame it is no surprise Dallas wants to get him more on the field.

Another case against Kearse is that as of right now no team has signed him. While other teams might not see a need at safety right now, it is a bit surprising he has not been picked up yet. Based on his slow offseason, Dallas likely made the right decision to let Kearse test the open market.

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