The Dallas Cowboys have a lot of tough decisions to make in the next few months. With 21 unrestricted free agents, their roster going forward will look vastly different, meaning there's no guarantee they can recreate the 12-5 magic they put on the field in 2021.
Dallas has to take a hard look at the defensive end position. DeMarcus Lawrence has been mentioned as a possible cap casualty, and Randy Gregory is set to test the market for his first huge payday. However, there's another player at the position that will be looking for a new deal.
Dorance Armstrong, a former fourth-round pick in 2018, had his best showing in the NFL in 2021, but the question is, was it enough to be brought back for a second go-around with the Cowboys?
Armstrong showed flashes during his first three seasons but struggled to be a consistent presence on the Cowboys' defensive line. This season would be a different story. Although he'll never be mistaken for T. J. Watt or Von Miller, Armstrong compiled a very solid campaign with career highs in tackles (37), sacks (5), and quarterback hits (12) while also adding a fumble recovery, a blocked punt, and a defensive touchdown against the Washington Commanders in Week 14 after a sack by rookie Linebacker Micah Parsons. Also, he recorded 36 pressures and 23 quarterback hurries.
Cowboys rookie Micah Parsons strip-sacked Taylor Heinicke for loss of 17. Cowboys DE Dorance Armstrong recovered fumble and returned for TD. Cowboys 18, WFT 0.
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— Jori Epstein (@JoriEpstein) December 12, 2021
Armstrong had his best stretch of the season from Week 15 to Week 18. He amassed three sacks and six quarterback hits and the Cowboys went 3-1 over that span.
This kind of performance couldn't have come at a better time for Armstrong. With the uncertainty at defensive end, he's positioned himself to be one of the most important players the Cowboys want to keep in the building. What's so attractive about bringing Armstrong back is not only is he talented on the field but he'll only be 25 once the season kicks off, making him an unfinished product with youth and tremendous upside.
Armstrong has appeal in another way also. His price tag won't be huge, so while the Cowboys are finagling their salary cap, Armstrong can figure into their plans pretty easily if they value him. That seems to be the case with team owner Jerry Jones who has always thought highly of the former Kansas Jayhawk.
”I've liked (Dorance) Armstrong,” Jones said. “I think he's absolutely … the trick is as a young player to get as much out of every day, every rep you can. He's really impressed me.”
The Cowboys losing both Lawrence and Gregory is unlikely. Even if one or both are brought back somehow, Armstrong gives the Cowboys depth on the edge and having as many players as possible who can get after the quarterback is a plus for any defense.
