The 2020 offseason is an important for the Dallas Cowboys. Quite possibly the most important in the history of the entire position. This team seems to be on the cusp of something big, but the decisions they make in the next few months could end up making or breaking them not only this season, but for the foreseeable future.
There are a lot of important events coming up that I believe Cowboys Nation needs to be aware of. It starts next week with the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, but that's only a small part of the bigger picture.
Let's take a look at what else is on the docket…
Key 2020 Offseason Dates
February 24-March 1: NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis
Will the Dallas Cowboys meet with Dak Prescott's representatives and heat up contract negotiations? Which 2020 prospects will they meet/interview in Indianapolis? Will it provide a clue as to the players/positions they're targeting in the draft?
February 25: First day for teams to designate franchise or transition players
Will the Dallas Cowboys use the franchise or transition tag on Dak Prescott? Amari Cooper? Byron Jones?
March 10: Deadline for teams to designate franchise or transition players (prior to 3 PM Central)
Last chance to use the franchise or transition tag for the Dallas Cowboys.
March 16-18: Teams can contact and negotiate with certified agents of players who will become unrestricted free agents upon the expiration of their 2019 player contracts at 3 PM Central on March 18.
“Legal tampering” to negotiate contracts begins on March 16, but the Dallas Cowboys can't officially sign anyone until the new league year begins on March 18.
March 18: The 2020 new league year begins at 3 PM Central. All 2019 player contracts expire then. It's the start of free agency and the trading period. Prior to 3 PM deadline, teams must be under the salary cap, must exercise 2020 options on players if applicable, and must submit qualifying offers to restricted free agents.
The 2020 season officially starts. The Dallas Cowboys have some decisions to make about a few club options with players and whether or not to tender any of their restricted free agents. This is also the first opportunity to learn about potential free agents they could be targeting.
March 29-April 1: Annual league meeting in Palm Beach, Florida
The annual league meeting is typically a busy few days for Dallas Cowboys Owner/GM Jerry Jones.
April 23-25: 2020 NFL Draft in Las Vegas
FINALLY! The most important event of the offseason arrives. Who will the Dallas Cowboys draft?
