For years, we've heard the buzz: “The Cowboys don't chase big free agent signings. They're a team that drafts and develops. This is what they do.” Well, they haven't seen a Super Bowl in 29 years, so maybe it's time to change strategy? – Eddie Montague/Bloomfield, New Jersey
Nick Harris: If you had asked me that before Will McCray took office, I would have agreed. But with the way he was drafted and his history (excluding 2023, at least for now), there were outcomes across all rounds that led to a second contract and roster that any team would want to get. There's a reason McCray gets asked for interviews every year as the GM of another team. Last season's roster was one of the best constructed in the league. It didn't happen when it was needed, and we ended up with a lot of injuries. However, when considering the draft picks who are the face of the team, Micah Parsons, Tyler Smith, and CeeDee Lamb all hit in the first round, and Dak Prescott, Daron Brand, and Jake Ferguson all hit in the first round. Both hit in the latter half of the season. I'm more comfortable with that reality than being overactive in free agency. But that doesn't mean they don't need to be more active than ever.
patrick: I said this recently, and I'll repeat it here: Yes, but not completely. This team's proficiency in drafting and development is, statistically speaking, rare in today's NFL, and there is tremendous value in that. My problem occurs when there is little or no balance in the equation. In short, I have always believed that free agency cannot be treated like an afterthought to justify draft and development ability. Both approaches need to work in tandem, as while having young, dynamic talent is a must, so is bringing in some good players. other Considering that not all young talent will make it, the team created and developed a draft that not only provides veteran IQ, but also helps ensure there are no holes on the roster. It's to the front office's credit that they've been more aggressive with trades recently (Cookes, Gilmore, Hankins, etc.), but bargain shopping in free agency needs to be a contingency approach in that area. In my opinion, it's not Plan A, especially if:You also have no intention of re-signing the talent. you Drafted and developed new contracts.
