In the high-stakes chess game of NFL free agency, teams constantly seek to bolster their rosters, aiming to fill gaps and enhance strengths. The Dallas Cowboys, under the watchful eyes of star linebacker Micah Parsons, are no exception.
Parsons has been vocal about his vision for the team’s defense, advocating for specific types of players to elevate their game. As we delve into the offseason, let’s explore three free agents who not only fit Parsons’s wishlist but could also transform the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive landscape.
Leonard Floyd: The Edge Rusher with Versatility
Leonard Floyd, formerly of the Buffalo Bills, stands out as a prime candidate for the Dallas Cowboys. Transitioning from an outside linebacker to an EDGE role, Floyd has shown remarkable adaptability and prowess.
Despite a challenging season with a Pro Football Focus grade of 56.3 in 2023, his performance remained impressive, tying his career-high of 10.5 sacks and nearly achieving another 20 QB hit season. Floyd’s statistical output suggests a player still in his prime, capable of contributing significantly to any defense.
Floyd’s potential acquisition comes with financial considerations. With an anticipated market value of $8.1 million, slightly above his previous salary with the Bills, the Dallas Cowboys might face challenges fitting him under their tight salary cap. Moreover, Floyd’s inclination towards the highest bidder, as indicated by his post-season comments, adds another layer of complexity to any potential negotiations.
Sheldon Rankins: The Resurgent Defensive Tackle
Sheldon Rankins’s resurgence with the Houston Texans last season has made him a hot commodity. Accumulating six sacks and showcasing a significant rebound in his pass-rushing capabilities, Rankins has proven that he’s far from reaching the twilight of his career.
Awarded his highest career Approximate Value grade by Pro Football Reference in 2023, Rankins embodies the type of disruptive force Parsons seeks for the Dallas Cowboys defensive line.
Projected to command a salary nearing $10 million, Rankins represents a pricier option. However, his ability to pressure quarterbacks and his recent performance spike could justify the investment.
The decision ultimately hinges on Rankins’s aspirations and whether he seeks a lucrative, multi-year deal or would consider a discount for a promising project like the Texans or a championship-contending team like the Cowboys.
Micah Parsons wants the Dallas Cowboys to give Tony Pollard another chance pic.twitter.com/crKW1upqAr
— FirstSportz NFL (@FirstSportz_NFL) February 21, 2024
Tim Settle: A Value Addition with Potential
The Dallas Cowboys’ search for defensive reinforcements might lead them to Tim Settle, a defensive tackle from the Buffalo Bills. At 6-foot-3 and 313 pounds, Settle slightly misses Parsons’s specific size criteria but offers considerable bulk and talent.
While his run defense has room for improvement, Settle’s pass defense capabilities have earned him positive assessments, suggesting he could be a valuable asset for the Dallas Cowboys.
Offering the added advantage of affordability, Settle’s projected salary of $3.7 million per year makes him an attractive option for the cap-strapped Cowboys. As a potential upgrade over Jonathan Hankins, Settle could provide the Cowboys with both depth and talent without breaking the bank.
Conclusion: Dallas Cowboys’ Strategic Approach to Free Agency
As the Dallas Cowboys navigate the complexities of the NFL offseason, the insights of Micah Parsons could play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s strategy. With Parsons advocating for a more formidable defense, the inclusion of players like Leonard Floyd, Sheldon Rankins, and Tim Settle could significantly impact the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive capabilities.
However, the pursuit of these free agents is not without its challenges. Financial constraints and competitive market dynamics will test the Dallas Cowboys’ front office’s ingenuity. Yet, with strategic acquisitions that align with Parsons’s vision, the Cowboys could position themselves as formidable contenders in the upcoming NFL season.
