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We've spent most of our time discussing free agent defensive tackles and ends, but where else could the Cowboys spend their money?
For the past weeks we've spent a lot of time talking about Henry Melton, DeMarcus Ware, Jared Allen, Jason Hatcher, Robert Ayers, Anthony Spencer and on and on. What do they all have in common? They play along the defensive line. Maybe, just maybe, the Cowboys are looking at some options besides the defensive line.
After signing Henry Melton to a deal (the details of which are masterfully broken down by OCC), the Cowboys are left with roughly $5 million in cap space. They could also gain a little more room by dumping a few players should they choose to go that route. It's also possible they'll wait until post-June 1 before heading into the bargain bin of free agents.
Some of that cap money could be going to bringing back Anthony Spencer at a bargain price, but he certainly won't command all of that cap space, or even most of it. So where else could the Cowboys make some small moves in free agency?
Wide receiver, offensive line, linebacker and possibly safety come to mind.
Wide Receiver - With the release of Miles Austin, the Cowboys are thin at receiver. Starters Dez Bryant and Terrance Williams are good to go, with Cole Beasley adding a nice option in the slot, but after that it's shaky. Dwayne Harris has had his moments but is he a starter if someone goes down? Doubtful. So who is out there?
Nate Burleson - Because of the Scott Linehan connection, his name will continue to be thrown around. He would know the system and terminology and has proven to be a capable #2 in the past. But age is a factor, he'll turn 33 before the season.
Others - Robert Meachem, Jason Avant, Damian Williams
Offensive Line - The starting five are likely set, but the depth is woeful. The list of available guys is long and across the board at tackle, guard and center. Expect the Cowboys somewhere along the way to pick up at least two bargains for depth.
Linebacker - The Cowboys made an aborted attempt to sign LB Will Herring early in free agency, mostly for special teams purposes. They were also said to be interested in Wesley Woodyard (who signed with the Titans). Could they be looking for options to replace Justin Durant on the depth chart? They could save $1.25 million on the cap with a release of Durant. Possibilities include: Marvin Mitchell, Stephen Nicholas, Pat Angerer, Bryan Kehl.
Safety - A longshot but the Cowboys could add a veteran. The combo of J.J. Wilcox and Jeff Heath weren't ready for prime time yet and Matt Johnson is always a question mark. Dallas would like Wilcox to step up, but they could add some insurance. Possibilities include: Chris Clemons, Thomas DeCoud.
What position would you like them to go after, and who are some of your favorite bargain free agents still available?
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