4 Cowboys players who won't be missed in 2024

3. Jayron Kearse, S

Jayron Kearse's fall from grace was tough to watch.

One of the most consistent players on Dan Quinn's defense the previous two seasons and a former fan favorite, Kearse was an extreme liability in 2023. He turns 30 this month, so maybe age has finally caught up to the eight-year veteran.

Whatever caused Kearse's decline, 44.9 defense grade this season ranked 32nd on the team, per Pro Football Focus (subscription required). His eight missed tackles tied for second most on the defense and his 81% completion rate allowed in coverage was second-most among players who logged at least 200 coverage snaps.

What made Kearse's poor performances all the more frustrating was his lack of discipline. His eight penalties were the most on the team. Almost every penalty was detrimental, too.

With Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker under contract, and Juanyeh Thomas hopefully next in line to fill Kearse's shoes, most Cowboys fans will be happy to see Kearse leave this offseason.