Looking Ahead: Free Agent Impacts

The Dallas Cowboys have lost several players who became free agents at the end of the season. Some of these players were major contributors to the team and their absence could be greatly felt.

To replace the departing players, the front office brought in a few free agents – not big names, but solid players who will meet our needs.

We will thoroughly assess the impact of these free agents and predict their statistics based on their previous seasons.

Free Agents

Eric Kendricks (LB)

Royce Freeman (RB)

Rico Dowdle (RB)

C.J. Goodwin (CB)

Jourdan Lewis (CB)

Trent Sieg (LS)

Ezekeil Elliott (RB)

Seven free agents have been signed to help fill out the roster, three of whom are from outside the organization.

The Cowboys typically retain most of their players, but this off-season has been different.

Free Agent Impacts

Eric Kendricks

Eric Kendricks brings a veteran presence to the locker room and is well-versed in Mike Zimmer’s defensive philosophy and terminology.

Kendricks excels as a versatile defender, proficient in both pass coverage and run stopping.

Kendricks is renowned for his exceptional run defense, consistently delivering significant tackles. He has impressively logged over 100 tackles for eight straight seasons, cementing his status as a dependable middle linebacker.

During his run in Minnesota and under Zimmer as his head coach (2015-2021), he allowed a sub-87 NFL passer rating to opposing quarterbacks in four of those seven seasons.

Pro Football Focus graded Kendricks over 88 in coverage for the 2019 and 2020 seasons, the best two for him as a pro. That grade ranked fourth and second among all NFL linebackers who played at least 20 percent of the snaps.

He is older now, but the knowledge and willingness are present and he will be a welcomed addition.

For the season we can expect around 127 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 46 tackles for a loss.

Royce Freeman

Royce Freeman is a journeyman back in the NFL, having been on five teams, including the Cowboys.

Freeman excels as a downhill, one-cut runner, boasting good vision. His technique of running with his head up enables him to effectively maneuver across the field.

He’s been labeled a power back, which might just be the boost the Cowboys’ running game needs.

Freeman lacks breakaway speed and has limited agility in open space.

Keep in mind that player evaluations can vary, but these are common observations about Freeman’s playing style.

If Freeman were to get touches, he would be good for about 3.5 yards per carry.

This may not be enough of a factor for the team to keep him, seeing how we can replicate his run style with other running backs on the roster.

Rico Dowdle

Rico Dowdle is the running back who could run away with the starting job sometime next season.

Dowdle’s lateral agility is remarkable, enabling him to swiftly shift directions and dodge defenders with ease. This agility is great in confined spaces, proving him to be an asset in both zone and gap schemes.

Vision is a key trait for a running back, and Dowdle excels here. He has a keen eye for spotting running lanes and makes quick, decisive moves.

His ability to detect cutback lanes and exploit defensive weaknesses ensures he maximizes his yardage.

In terms of versatility, Dowdle shines as a receiver from the backfield. His reliable hands allow him to catch passes with finesse.

This versatility is a strategic advantage, offering coaches flexibility in offensive play-calling, including screens and swing passes.

Dowdle may not have the biggest build (standing at 5’11″, 215 lbs), but he runs with a tenacity and physicality that belies his size.

He’s not one to avoid contact, often fighting for those extra yards after a hit.

When it comes to pass protection, Dowdle’s commitment is noteworthy. He’s proactive in his blocking duties, effectively picking up blitzes and safeguarding the quarterback.

Dowdle is averaging about 4 yards per carry. An increased workload could see this number rise significantly.

Dowdle has the potential to be a 1,000-yard back with about 250 receiving yards.

C.J. Goodwin

C.J. Goodwin is the Cowboys special team’s ace. He does not see the field much at the cornerback position.

Goodwin is good enough on special teams to keep a spot on the roster.

He will not contribute much to any other phases of the game plan.

Jourdan Lewis

With his seasoned expertise and on-field performance, Jourdan Lewis is set to be a frequent presence on the field.

Lewis has remained a Cowboy since his draft day and has re-committed to the team by re-signing, opting not to join other players in Washington D.C.

Lewis shines in coverage and is adept at shadowing receivers in both man and zone setups. His agility and quick reflexes enable him to effectively counter his opponents’ moves.

In terms of ball skills, Lewis excels at pass disruption, utilizing his keen timing and awareness to intercept or deflect throws.

As a tackler, he’s dependable, particularly in open-field scenarios, ensuring solid wrap-ups and minimizing additional yardage by receivers.

His versatility is a plus, capable of playing both on the perimeter and in the slot, adding strategic value to the defense.

However, Lewis does have some drawbacks:

While quick, Lewis isn’t the fastest on the field, which could leave him vulnerable to speedier receivers in long-distance plays.

Additionally, his injury history is a concern, with a foot injury truncating his 2022 season. Maintaining fitness is key to his ongoing contribution.

Lewis is a significant player for the Cowboys’ defense, yet there’s room for growth in certain aspects of his game.

Lewis should have a season with about 39 tackles, 1 interception, and 5 pass deflections.

Trent Sieg

As a long snapper, Sieg consistently delivers accurate snaps to the punter or holder during field goals and extra points.

Having played for several seasons in the NFL, Sieg brings valuable experience to the Cowboys’ special teams’ unit.

He can contribute both as a long snapper and on coverage teams during punts and kickoffs.

Long snappers don’t typically have extensive physical attributes, so Sieg’s limitations may be related to his size and speed.

Like any specialist, Sieg faces pressure situations during crucial moments in games. Handling these moments consistently can be challenging.

Remember that long snappers often work behind the scenes, but their role is critical for successful special teams’ execution.

Ezekiel Elliott

The man, the myth, the legend has returned, sporting a star on his helmet after a year-long sabbatical in Boston.

He will be the number one running back to start the season, and his presence alone boosts team morale.

Elliott’s best quality remains his ability to do it all.

He’s a jack-of-all-trades at the running back position, excelling in running inside the tackles, bouncing outside, and catching passes, giving the Cowboys a rare advantage in an age of specialists and rotations.

Elliott has a well-muscled frame and exceptional strength, allowing him to handle a heavy workload.

He can provide major assistance as a receiving threat, blocker, and short-yardage runner.

While he once possessed elite burst and acceleration, Elliott’s speed has declined over time.

Having played several seasons, he carries more wear and tear on his body than expected for his age.

Despite his decline in certain areas, Elliott’s versatility and value in different facets of the game make him an asset for the Cowboys in the 2024 NFL season.

Elliott’s season could consist of about 896 yards, 9 touchdowns, and about 230 receiving yards with 2 touchdowns.

The Cowboys have acquired some solid, albeit not stellar, free agents.

These newcomers will have ample opportunities to prove their worth, and exceptional performance will be crucial.

For many players and coaches, this could be a pivotal year, so it’s essential that this group of free agents contribute to put a good product on the field.