The Dallas Cowboys have been relatively quiet this offseason, but they've made some strategic moves that could set the stage for an intriguing season. Re-signing running back Javonte Williams with a three-year, $24 million deal and securing Pro Bowl wideout George Pickens with the franchise tag were smart plays to keep key talents in-house before they could test free agency waters.
Their headline move was trading for Rashan Gary, a veteran edge rusher. While some might argue that Jerry Jones could have waited for Gary to be released by the Packers and saved a fourth-round pick, restructuring his deal was a savvy move.
But outside of Gary, the Cowboys' free agency activity has been mostly about adding depth, with signings like safeties Jalen Thompson and P.J. Locke, cornerback Cobie Durant, and others.
However, there's a glaring issue at linebacker. ESPN's recent free agency rankings placed the Cowboys at 20th, largely due to this gap.
Analyst Ben Solak pointed out the team's failure to secure a linebacker despite efforts to land Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean, who ended up with the Raiders. With Marist Liufau shifting roles, the Cowboys are left with just three off-ball linebackers, including DeMarvion Overshown, who is still recovering from a knee injury.
The current lineup, including Shemar James and Justin Barron, lacks the depth needed for a playoff-caliber defense. New defensive coordinator Christian Parker's hybrid schemes will require more talent at linebacker, and with limited options in free agency, the draft seems the most viable route.
Holding two first-round picks at No. 12 and No. 20, Dallas is likely eyeing linebacker prospects to bolster their roster.
On the brighter side, Solak praised the Cowboys for tagging Pickens, suggesting that Dallas could be a dark horse for a deep playoff run in this one-year window. With strategic picks and a bit of luck, the Cowboys might just surprise everyone this season.