While not on the same tier as Dak Prescott, Amari Cooper, or Byron Jones, veteran Linebacker Sean Lee appears to be a priority free agent for the Dallas Cowboys. With the “legal tampering” window now open in the NFL, there’s a report that Dallas is working to get Lee re-signed for a 2020 return.
With his ability to play strongside linebacker and rotate with or replace starters Leighton Vander Esch and Jaylon Smith, Lee has still strong value for Dallas even in his twilight years. Despite turning 34 this summer, Sean proved last season that he can still be an impact player.
Dallas’ two best backup linebackers, Lee and Joe Thomas, are both set to be unrestricted free agents this offseason. Other experienced depth such as Malcolm Smith and Justin March are also not under contract for 2020.
Getting Lee back would shore up the starting position in the base 4-3 defense and provide a key rotation piece for the nickel scheme. It also keeps one of the team’s best veteran leaders and locker room guys in place.
What’s more, Lee is one of the few Cowboys who’s had experience playing the 3-4 scheme. There is talk that new Defensive Coordinator Mike Nolan may employ that look at times this season.
The Cowboys could still pursue LB depth in free agency and the 2020 NFL Draft, especially since this could be Sean’s final season before retirement.
However, getting Sean Lee back would be a strong move for next season. He can still fill several roles among the LB group and would help his teammates make the transition to a new head coach and defensive coordinator.
