FRISCO – At first glance, it makes all the sense in the world. In fact, the deal has been touted by numerous Dallas Cowboys-centered fan websites as an “obvious” Dallas deal.
Eric Kendricks was recently released by the Minnesota Vikings, but he was once an All-Pro under head coach Mike Zimmer.
Zimmer is currently in Dallas, where a cost-friendly run-stopping linebacker is needed. Kendricks is 32 years old and on the tail end of his career, but he needs work.
Dallas “obviously” signed Kendricks in free agency…right?
It's not that fast.
When the University of Minnesota fired Coach Zimmer in January 2022, Kendricks was asked about his relationship with the coach, saying the team lacked a “culture that puts communication at the forefront” and refrained from asking questions. There was no. …It’s important to listen to and consider each other’s opinions.
“I don’t think fear-based organizations are the way to go.”
This statement doesn't necessarily mean Kendricks and Zimmer have a problem reuniting. Kendricks successfully defended Zimmer and served as team captain. There were also positive points.
“We put in a lot of effort together and had great results,” Kendricks said of himself and Zimmer at the time.
But he added: I think that's the question you should ask him. ”
This really goes back to Zimmer's introductory press conference here at The Star last month, during which the coach talked about his reputation as a “snarky person.” … He said he received a ton of “thank you” messages from former players.
Maybe that's how Kendricks feels about Zimmer — he's more than just an “uncommunicative asshole.” Hey, maybe Kendricks was one of those texters. Or, for all we know at this point, Zimmer may think Kendricks is running out of gas as a player.
Certainly, Kendricks would fit into Zimmer's defensive system currently in place in Dallas. But that certainly doesn't mean Kendricks wants to fit into Zimmer's “culture” at The Star.
But we'll give the last word to Jim's new boss, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.
Asked if the Cowboys specifically need that, Jones said, “He's not a bullish guy. He's an outspoken guy. I think everyone needs that to some degree.”
