Few things are more predictable in the NFL than the Dallas Cowboys making calculated free agency moves – and then getting ripped apart for them.
Last year, Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office made it clear they were taking a conservative approach, keeping spending minimal in preparation for 2025.
That meant watching multiple starters walk while signing only one external free agent, linebacker Eric Kendricks.
Fast forward a year, and Dallas has been far more active, bringing in 10 free agents while re-signing key contributors. Yet, for most, that still isn’t enough.
Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano delivered a particularly harsh assessment of the Cowboys’ offseason, giving them an “F” for their free agency moves.
“It’s become somewhat of a yearly tradition for the Jones family to have a quiet free agency,” Manzano stated. “They did very little to address the defensive needs outside of retaining Odighizuwa, who has his limitations against the run.
“The Cowboys likely won’t receive much from Fowler and Murray. But Dallas will get an opportunity to address the stagnant rushing attack during a loaded draft for running backs.
“The Cowboys’ boring free agency would have been overlooked had they at least re-signed Micah Parsons.”
Manzano’s critique largely focuses on the lack of splashy moves, but does that mean Dallas failed in free agency?
While Dallas didn’t land marquee names, they did make strategic moves to bolster depth. The additions of linebacker Jack Sanborn and defensive linemen Solomon Thomas and Payton Turner provide much-needed reinforcements.
And as for Dante Fowler Jr.? The pass rusher is coming off a career-best season with the Washington Commanders, recording 10.5 sacks – hardly an insignificant contribution.
One point in Manzano’s critique is tough to argue: locking up Micah Parsons long-term would have changed the narrative around this offseason.
A Parsons extension would have been the kind of headline-grabbing move that silences critics, at least temporarily.
Of course, that deal isn’t dead. It just hasn’t happened yet. And according to reports, there hasn’t been much meaningful dialogue between the two sides.
The Cowboys have built a reputation for making patient, measured moves in free agency while relying on the draft to fill major needs.
While fans and analysts want instant results, history has shown that some of the best acquisitions aren’t the biggest names. Look no further than Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun, who went from an unheralded signing to an All-Pro performer.
Having said that, no one will cut Jerry Jones and the Cowboys any slack. The heat is on them and rightfully so. You can’t blame Dallas fans for not having much faith in their front office.
What are your thoughts on the harsh “F” grade? … Is it truly warranted? Or do you think Jones and company are actually onto something this time around???
