Dallas Cowboys Quiet But Solid in Free Agency
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Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers linebacker Corey Lemonier (96) rushes against Dallas Cowboys tackle Doug Free (68) at AT&T Stadium. San Francisco beat Dallas 28-17. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Kept Doug Free
The Cowboys have an offensive line that’s similar but not quite as good as the one they had in the ’90s. Running back Emmitt Smith ran the heck out of the ball and quarterback Troy Aikman threw it down the field to receiver Michael Irvin. Then of course, they had tight end Jay Novacek working the middle of the field and getting the drive-sustaining first downs.
In 2014, Tony Romo was the quarterback, Dez Bryant the receiver, Jason Witten the tight end and Demarco Murray running back. And with free agency now upon us, the Cowboys had to choose who they would to let test free agency. So they decided to keep that dominant offensive line together and sign right tackle Doug Free for three years and $15 million.
That was a wise move because Murray may or may not command a big payday in free agency. And keeping the line together that made him a star could be what makes him re-sign with the team. Running back has the biggest occupational hazard in the NFL so it will hard leave that offensive line.
Next: Plan B