Are the Dallas Cowboys truly going “all in” this time? Last offseason, the team raised expectations by claiming they were fully committed to competing, only to disappoint fans with a lack of impactful moves. This year, however, they might be on track to change that narrative.
The Cowboys recently created over $50 million in cap space by restructuring the contracts of Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, giving them the flexibility to pursue notable free agents.
With the current state of their roster, Dallas isn’t exactly built to dominate the highly competitive NFC East. They have needs at nearly every position, and while this year’s free agent class isn’t considered particularly strong, there are still several players who could fit Dallas’ plans now that they’ve opened up significant cap room.
Potential Targets for Dallas Cowboys with New Cap Space
Tyler Lockett
Though Lockett is no longer the explosive deep threat he once was, he could still provide value to Dallas at a reasonable price. The team needs a field-stretching receiver to complement CeeDee Lamb, and while bigger names like D.K. Metcalf and Davante Adams are options, they may be too costly for Dallas.
Lockett’s production dipped in the past two seasons with Seattle, including just 600 receiving yards in 2024 — his lowest total since 2017. However, in Dallas’ less crowded receiving corps, he could take on a larger role.
Ronnie Stanley
The Cowboys’ offensive tackle situation remains uncertain. Rookie Tyler Guyton showed promise but may not be the long-term answer at left tackle. On the right side, Terrance Steele struggled.
Signing a proven veteran like Ronnie Stanley could help solidify the line. Stanley could take over at left tackle, moving Guyton to his more natural spot on the right. With Cooper Beebe and Tyler Smith anchoring the interior, this would give Dallas a much more reliable offensive front. If the Ravens let Stanley test the market, Dallas should be ready to make a move.
Josh Sweat
With the Eagles recently locking up linebacker Zack Baun, it’s possible edge rusher Josh Sweat could hit free agency. Sweat has been a reliable pass rusher for Philadelphia, including posting three sacks in the Super Bowl. If he becomes available, numerous teams will be interested, meaning Dallas would need to act aggressively.
With Demarcus Lawrence likely on his way out, Dallas needs another pass rusher to play opposite Micah Parsons. While there’s hope that Marshawn Kneeland and Sam Williams can step into larger roles, adding Sweat would give the Cowboys a proven disruptor off the edge. This addition could help Dallas’ defense return to the elite form it displayed in 2023.