The Dallas Cowboys finally made moves in free agency but remain one of the few teams in the league without a big-time signing.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Dallas allowed the Jacksonville Jaguars to poach cornerback Jourdan Lewis and offensive tackle Chuma Edoga.
Dallas also lost defensive end Chauncey Golston to the New York Giants, with the pass rusher agreeing to a three-year contract worth $19.5 million, according to Tom Pelissero.
This decision to allow Golston to sign with another team is surprising as it follows the best season of Golston’s career, collecting 30 solo tackles and 5.5 sacks with one interception while playing in every game last season.
Although Dallas has the cap space available to re-sign a player of Golston’s caliber, the franchise has seemingly opted to make only smaller moves during this free agency period.
The Cowboys responded by making various moves for smaller players who can help the team next season.
The Cowboys’ first outside free-agent signing this offseason was for running back Javonte Williams, who agreed to a contract worth $3 million over one season with America’s Team.
While Williams has proven competent as a running back in previous seasons, this signing means Rico Dowdle is likely to sign a contract with another team soon.
Dowdle is expected to command a solid market, and the Cowboys reportedly view Williams as a “comparable talent” and “more cost-effective” option at the position, according to David Moore of The Dallas Morning News.
Moore added that Dallas is “committed” to drafting a running back in the 2025 NFL Draft, though it is unclear in what round that selection will be made.
The Cowboys followed Williams’ signing by acquiring offensive guard Rob Jones on a one-year contract worth $4.75 million.
This signing was also confusing since Dallas could have paid a cheaper price for Edoga, who has been with the franchise for the past two seasons and signed a contract worth just $7 million across two seasons.
Instead, Dallas opted to sign the more expensive player who ranked 62nd out of 64 guards in ESPN’s pass block win rate and 64th in run block win rate, according to Laurie Horesh of ESPN.
Finally, Dallas opened the morning on Tuesday by agreeing to a two-year contract worth up to $8 million with defensive tackle Solomon Thomas.
Thomas is coming off a solid season with the New York Jets and finished the year with 26 solo tackles and 3.5 sacks.
While Dallas is unlikely to sign any big-name free agents for the remainder of the offseason, the team could continue adding players on smaller deals who can compete for starting roles next season.
Dallas could look to add another cornerback following Lewis’ departure or another wide receiver to mitigate that position’s need during the upcoming draft.