The Dallas Cowboys' defense is set to be a major talking point this offseason. After a lackluster performance in 2025, the onus is on owner and general manager Jerry Jones to bolster the unit for new defensive coordinator Christian Parker.
The financial situation in Dallas is tight, with the Cowboys sitting $55.3 million over the salary cap, according to OverTheCap. This makes the offseason spending spree a bit of a pipe dream unless they make some strategic cuts. One name that stands out as a potential cut is veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark.
With the recent addition of Quinnen Williams, Clark's hefty contract could be a luxury the Cowboys can't afford. Free agency kicks off on March 11, and parting ways with Clark could be on the agenda for America's Team.
Why Kenny Clark Might Be on His Way Out
As it stands, the Cowboys' budget constraints are significant. Even if they ask stars like CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott to restructure their contracts, freeing up nearly $50 million, it might not suffice.
With Williams now anchoring the defensive line, the Cowboys have committed $63 million to three defensive tackles. Osa Odighizuwa, being younger, and Williams, a standout talent, make Clark the odd man out.
Releasing Clark would free up a substantial $21.5 million in cap space, according to Spotrac. While a trade might be an option, not many teams are eager to take on a $21.5 million cap hit this year and $20 million next season for a veteran interior lineman.
Clark's performance dipped after a promising start, finishing with just 17 solo tackles and 3.0 sacks. However, he did record 44 pressures, ranking 15th among 134 eligible defensive linemen, per Pro Football Focus.
Though Clark still has the potential to contribute significantly to a contender, his current salary doesn't align with his output. The Cowboys would love to keep him as a rotational player behind Williams and Odighizuwa, but financial realities make it challenging.
Additionally, the Cowboys need to find ways to retain players like Brandon Aubrey and George Pickens. Cutting Clark seems like a logical step in managing their salary cap effectively.