Jerry Jones has mentioned he’s open to “busting the budget” in free agency or through trades. What that means though is anyone’s guess as is if he will actually follow through. This is a song and dance we’ve heard before from him, but for whatever reason this time it feels little different. Maybe, just maybe he’ll actually means what he says this time around.
While we don’t expect the Dallas Cowboys to go out and sign all of the top free agents at positions of “need”, we do expect them to be more
actively aggressive, targeting players who will step in and make an immediate impact. With that in mind, we thought we’d attempt to predict what a “bust the budget” free agency and trade scenario could look like for the Cowboys this year.
Trade for Steelers’ OLB Nick Herbig
Cowboys receive 1.21, OLB Nick Herbig; Steelers receive 1.12
Forget about signing Trey Hendrickson now that Maxx Crosby has been traded, the pass rusher the Cowboys should be targeting is Pittsburgh Steelers OLB Nick Herbig. He’s only 24 years old and entering the final year of his rookie contract. The Steelers are already heavily invested in T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, making it unlikely they will offer Herbig a contract extension. Swapping first-round draft picks is equivalent to a mid second-round draft pick this year. This trade gives Dallas a starting caliber OLB who fits Parker’s scheme and immediately upgrades the defense.
Trade for Dolphins’ S Minkah Fitzpatrick
Cowboys receive S Minkah Fitzpatrick, Dolphins received 4.112
Minkah Fitzpatrick is supposedly being shopped by the Miami Dolphins and the Cowboys would be wise to make an offer to acquire his services. The three-time First-Team All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowl safety would not only be an upgrade over both Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson, but would be a near perfect fit for what Christian Parker is looking for at the position. Fitzpatrick is a versatile safety capable playing in the box, deep, or in the nickel. His addition would immediately solidify and upgrade the back end of Dallas’ secondary.
Sign CB Alonte Taylor
Contract projection via The Athletic: 4 years, $77 million
Alonte Taylor is arguably the top free agent cornerback on the open market this year. He’s scheme diverse and has the versatility to play inside and out. He played the star/nickel role with the Saints in Brandon Staley’s defense, making him a potential candidate to play a similar role in Christian Parker’s defensive scheme. His position flex could make him invaluable to the Cowboys considering their injury concerns currently at the position and make him a chess piece type of weapon for Parker to deploy as he sees fit.
Sign LB Nakobe Dean
Contract projection via The Athletic: 4 years, $40 million
Due to their time together with the Philadelphia Eagles, Nakobe Dean is a logical linebacker target for the Cowboys in free agency. Dean’s familiarity with Parker and his defensive scheme can help the transition go more smoothly and quickly. He does come with some red flags though. His well documented injury history since entering the league is a pretty significant concern. While reuniting with Parker makes him an ideal fit, the Cowboys may have to draft a LB early capable of competing for the starting job and for insurance purposes.
