Looking into Cowboys rookie extension candidates and what they might get

Chauncey Golston

Golston is the Cowboys' final extension candidate from the 2021 class. Some folks might view his inclusion as a reach, but he's stepped up as a valuable piece in the defensive line rotation the last two seasons.

A third-round pick in the 2021 draft, Golston posted a higher pass-rush grade this season than Dorance Armstrong, Sam Williams and Dante Fowler. He finished with 20 pressures, two sacks and 17 hurries in just 190 pass-rush snaps, per Pro Football Focus.

Golston is the most versatile of the Cowboys' rotational defensive lineman. In 2023, he logged 162 snaps lined up as a defensive tackle. No other DE had more than 55 snaps in that regard. He also logged 136 snaps lined up on the DL over a tackle. That was the highest among Dallas' edge rushers.

With Armstrong and Fowler headed for free agency, Golston could step into a prominent role next season. His versatility will likely be valued by new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. He's not a difference-maker, but every team needs a versatile DL and Golston checks a lot of boxes.

Projection: Three years, $18 million ($14 million guaranteed)

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