The Dallas Cowboys did a solid job this offseason upgrading their biggest needs on the roster. Their biggest additions both came via the trade, as they acquired cornerback Stephon Gilmore from the Indianapolis Colts and wide receiver Brandin Cooks from the Houston Texans.
Dallas now has a stellar cornerback duo with Gilmore pairing up with All-Pro Trevon Diggs. Cooks’ presence offensively will provide Dak Prescott with another strong option in the passing game, taking some pressure off of CeeDee Lamb, who had a stellar 2022 season as the No. 1 option.
But, with a good chunk of cap space still available, the Cowboys likely aren’t done adding to the roster. They have $16.7 million they can spend, which should make them players late in free agency or if veterans are released during the summer.
One player to keep an eye on as a late addition is tight end, Marcedes Lewis. Dallas lost Dalton Schultz in free agency, which was a blow to their depth at the position. 2022 fourth-round pick Jake Ferguson and rookie Luke Schoonmaker are currently atop the depth chart, which means the experience and leadership Lewis would provide is extremely important.
Lewis isn’t much of a pass-catcher anymore but is still a solid player that can have an impact on the game. His run blocking remains elite and he can be used as a red zone weapon with two of his six receptions last season going for touchdowns.
Another name to keep an eye on is running back Ezekiel Elliott. The two sides parted ways earlier this offseason but could reconnect after Dallas didn’t address the running back position much in free agency or the draft.
The only addition that was made was selecting Deuce Vaughn out of Kansas State in the sixth round. He produced at a high level collegiately and has a nice skill set, but his size will be a detriment at the next level.
The Cowboys do have options as there are veterans still available in free agency outside of Elliott. But, Elliott knows the system and has familiarity with the franchise so it would make sense for a reunion with Tony Pollard’s early season availability up in the air.
Last but not least, the Cowboys could look to address the linebacker position with someone such as Deion Jones. The NFC East is loaded with teams who want to run the ball, which was a weakness for Dallas last season.
Jones has a relationship with Cowboys’ defensive coordinator Dan Quinn from their time together with the Atlanta Falcons as well. That makes him a natural fit for the defense in Dallas as the transition will be easier joining a team whose scheme he has experience playing in.
