Cowboys Plan Major Free Agency Spending
The Dallas Cowboys are planning to spend more in free agency this year after placing the franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens and signing running back Javonte Williams. The team is also considering trading backup guard TJ Bass or Brock Hoffman to bolster defensive depth, with Bass potentially fetching a fourth-round pick. Meanwhile, they're moving Marist Liufau to outside linebacker, signaling he may struggle to make the 53-man roster.
This offseason's spending spree marks a significant departure from the Cowboys' traditionally conservative approach to free agency. For the past decade, Dallas has consistently ranked among the lowest in the league in free-agent spending, averaging just $37.8 million per year over the last 10 years, the least in the NFL. The front office has historically prioritized re-signing their own draft picks over pursuing big-name outside talent. The franchise tag for George Pickens alone will cost the Cowboys a fully guaranteed $27.3 million for the 2026 season. This figure is based on the average of the top five wide receiver salaries in the league. The team now has until mid-July to negotiate a long-term extension with Pickens, or he will play the season on this one-year deal. Javonte Williams' new three-year, $24 million contract comes after a breakout season where he rushed for over 1,200 yards. The deal, which includes $16 million in guaranteed money, was a priority for Dallas to secure before the running back market was set in free agency. Williams was coming off a one-year "prove-it" deal worth $3 million. To accommodate this spending, the Cowboys are expected to create significant salary cap space by restructuring the contracts of several key players. Simple conversions of salary to signing bonuses for players like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Tyler Smith can free up over $66 million in cap room for the upcoming season. The potential trades of backup guards TJ Bass or Brock Hoffman aim to address a lack of defensive depth. With several teams, including the Baltimore Ravens, Seattle Seahawks, and Green Bay Packers, potentially in the market for interior offensive linemen, the Cowboys could find a willing trade partner. Bass, a restricted free agent, is expected to receive a second-round tender worth approximately $5.8 million. The move of Marist Liufau to outside linebacker comes after a rookie season where he recorded 50 tackles and 1.5 sacks while starting nine games. Liufau, a third-round pick in 2024, saw his playing time increase significantly in the final month of the 2024 season after an injury to DeMarvion Overshown. His transition to a new position suggests he may need to carve out a niche on special teams to secure his roster spot.
