Jerry Jones is making waves this offseason with a clear sense of purpose. Securing Javonte Williams after a standout year was just the beginning. With decisions looming on Brandon Aubrey and George Pickens, Jones’ strategy is becoming increasingly evident.
In a departure from Dallas' usual conservative spending, Jones seems ready to "bust the budget." Jason Fitzgerald of Over The Cap highlights that "conservative" might even be an understatement when describing the Cowboys' free-agent approach.
Despite solid regular-season performances over the past six years, Fitzgerald argues that the Cowboys can no longer rely on bargain hunting.
When it comes to free agency, the Cowboys rank 25th in the NFL with just 16 signings, totaling under $55 million in contracts. That's about $20 million less than the next team. With an average spend of $3.4 million per player, they trail even the Texans, who filled much of their roster through free agency.
The time has come for the Cowboys to truly commit.
Fitzgerald was inspired to examine the numbers after Ravens GM Eric DeCosta mentioned Baltimore's cautious free agency spending. The Cowboys find themselves in similar territory.
With two first-round picks, Jones has the leverage to shake things up in free agency. Going "all-in" means targeting players who can make a real impact. Yet, as Fitzgerald’s data shows, Jones has stuck to a bargain-bin approach that hasn't propelled the team forward.
Teams like the Eagles, Buccaneers, Ravens, and Packers have all spent conservatively at times but have also known when to splurge to maintain playoff contention.
In contrast, the Cowboys have focused on the draft while being frugal in free agency. Fitzgerald’s insights reveal this strategy has been inflexible.
Success in the NFL often comes from a mix of strong drafting and strategic free-agent spending. The Eagles exemplify this by developing rookies like Cooper DeJean and making bold moves for stars like A.J. Brown and Saquon Barkley.
Jones declared two years ago his intention to go "all-in." Moves for George Pickens and Quinnen Williams have hinted at this, but now, at 83, it's time for Jones to fully realize that promise. This offseason could be pivotal.