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Todd Archer, ESPN Staff Writer
The NFL's free agency program is still underway, and we're tracking every major contract, trade, and release of the 2024 offseason with analysis from NFL Nation reporters and scoring from experts. I am. The new league year begins March 13th at 4pm ET, after which free agent signings may become official. The first round of the 2024 NFL Draft begins April 25 on ESPN.
Here's a breakdown of the 2024 NFL free agents signed by the Dallas Cowboys and how each one will impact next season.
After initially agreeing to terms with the Chargers, Kendricks decided to join the Cowboys on a one-year deal.
Its meaning: The linebacker was at the top of the Cowboys' list of needs last season after Marquise Bell, who converted to safety, played the spot after Leighton Vander Esch's neck injury and survived the season. While Vander Esch's career is uncertain, the Cowboys have a player familiar with Mike Zimmer's scheme after playing seven seasons in Minnesota as the Cowboys' new defensive coordinator. He has recorded at least 92 tackles every year of his career. Knowing this plan, he brings value beyond the field to making sure everyone knows where to line up.
What are the risks: At 32 years old, he may not be the player that went back to Zimmer's initial negotiations, but there is little financial downside to this one-year deal. And that doesn't mean the Cowboys don't need to prioritize linebackers in the draft. Kendrick handling communications duties will take some pressure off Damone Clarke.
Lewis returned to Dallas on a one-year contract.
Its meaning: The Cowboys have their slot corner back in preparation for the return of Trevon Diggs, who missed all but two games in 2023 with a torn ACL. The Cowboys are doing well thanks to Daron Brand, who led the NFL in interception rate last season. The trio could become even stronger if free agent Stephon Gilmore returns. Lewis played in 16 games and started eight since returning from a serious foot injury in 2022. He had 52 tackles, one interception, five pass breakups, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and two tackles for loss last season.
What are the risks: There's always some risk given the nature of the foot injury, but he played in every game he was on the roster last season and has gotten better as the year has gone on. It also protects the Cowboys at cornerback, knowing they have their top three corners behind them and won't have to reach for them during the draft. Lewis is one of the toughest players on the team and is considered a key player in a demanding position.
Doodle will re-sign with Dallas for one season.
Its meaning: Dowdle's return doesn't give the Cowboys an running back, but at least he had 89 carries last season as Tony Pollard's backup. He had 12 carries in two games. He finished the year with two rushing touchdowns and two receiving touchdowns while catching 17 passes. Doodle has had trouble staying healthy, but he played in 16 games last season. He may not be a true No. 2 ball carrier, but he can do the job if needed, while also having the ability to help all four special teams units.
What are the risks: As with other additions, there's no real financial risk, and the decision to keep him doesn't take the Cowboys out of the market for a free agent veteran or an early draft pick in April. . With Pollard gone to the Tennessee Titans, the Cowboys need more solid talent in the backfield, but perhaps they'll do the job differently than they've done in recent years with Pollard and Ezekiel. In order to do this, they will likely use many backs. Elliot.
Freeman joins the Cowboys on a one-year deal.
Its meaning: This is another piece of depth in the running back room. He gained 319 yards and two touchdowns on 77 carries for the Rams last year. He was a third-round pick by Denver in 2018 and has also played in Carolina and Houston. He never exceeded 521 yards or 132 carries in a season, and those records came in his first two years with the Broncos.
What are the risks: none. There's little financial downside, and it doesn't eliminate the Cowboys' need to acquire a back early in the next draft or even add a free agent. The Cowboys still need a lead running back, but he brings some experience and a little more size to the other runners currently on the roster: Dowdle, Malik Davis and Deuce Vaughn.
The Cowboys plan to have Zeke return in 2024 on a one-year contract.
Its meaning: That must mean the Cowboys are going all out, right? After the Cowboys were the only team that didn't re-sign their own free agents or didn't agree to sign unrestricted free agents. Anxiety grew among fans who wanted something done. With Zeke's return, the Cowboys will have the same special teams trio from last year in Pro Bowl kicker Brandon Aubrey and Pro Bowl punter Brian Unger. Aubrey specifically complemented Zeke's work in his first year with the Cowboys, knowing snaps wouldn't be an issue as the kicker set records last season.
What are the risks: none. There is very little security deposit. They needed a long snapper. They met a need. So this is as risk-free a move as they make.
The Cowboys re-signed Edga to a one-year contract.
Its meaning: The Cowboys hid at the swing tackle spot. Edga played in 17 games last season, starting four at left tackle and two at left guard. Although he struggled late in the season against Miami, he performed well enough to warrant renewed attention. Ultimately, the Cowboys need to see what recent draft picks Asim Richards, Matt Waleczko and Josh Ball can do.
What are the risks: none. Even if Edga doesn't make the final roster, there will be little financial negative impact. This doesn't eliminate the need to look for a tackle in the draft in any round. This move gives them veteran insurance.
Goodwin will remain with the Cowboys on a one-year contract.
Its meaning: Goodwin has been the Cowboys' best special teamer in years when healthy. He missed 12 games last year with a pectoral injury, but still finished fourth on the team in special teams tackles. Goodwin would be an advantage if there were any changes to the kickoff rules, but he is a great gunner on the punt team and often requires double teams.
What are the risks: He got injured last year, and he's 34 years old. However, there is little financial risk. His return means special teams coordinator John Fassel will take over as coach on the field.
