The Dallas Cowboys have made a splash in free agency, a move that's as rare as a snowstorm in Texas. Jerry Jones has delivered on his promise, and it's a big one.
The Cowboys' first major signing is safety Jalen Thompson, previously with the Cardinals. He’s inked a three-year deal worth $33 million, potentially reaching $36 million with incentives. This is a significant shift for Dallas, not just in terms of position but also in spending strategy.
If Thompson hits those incentives, his $12 million per year deal would surpass Greg Hardy's 2025 contract as the priciest for an external free agent in Cowboys history, based on annual average value.
Even without hitting the max incentives, Thompson's deal marks a break from tradition. He’s the first external free agent to sign for more than $6 million annually since Gerald McCoy in 2020. For a franchise of the Cowboys' stature, a six-year gap in significant free-agent spending is surprising.
Brandon Carr was previously the benchmark for Dallas' big free-agent investments. His five-year, $50.1 million contract in 2012 included $25.5 million guaranteed but didn’t pan out as hoped, making the Cowboys cautious in the market.
While there’s wisdom in restraint, the Cowboys' conservative approach has sometimes hindered their competitive edge. Building solely through the draft is risky, even for the best drafting teams. A balanced strategy requires occasional spending.
This move signifies a shift towards normalcy for the Cowboys. While it might not be groundbreaking, it’s a welcome change for fans who’ve grown accustomed to quiet offseasons. The signing of Thompson brings a fresh sense of excitement and optimism to the franchise.
The drought is finally over, and Cowboys fans have reason to celebrate.