With the NFL Draft long behind us and training camp fast approaching, the Dallas Cowboys still have some holes they could look to address. Let’s examine four free agents who could make sense for Dallas to bring into training camp.
4 Free Agents the Cowboys Should Sign
As it stands, the Cowboys have 86 of the allotted 90 roster spots spoken for. With four still up for grabs and just over a month remaining until the team heads to training camp in Oxnard, Calif., this could be when Dallas rounds out its roster.
None of the available free-agent pieces will break the bank, and that’s exactly how the Cowboys like it. But what they can do is provide depth and competition in camp as the Cowboys look to finally get over the hump with a deep playoff run in 2024.
Linval Joseph, DT
In the NFL, relationships matter. Yes, you need to be able to play, but familiarity and comfortability help extend careers as much as anything else. In the case of Linval Joseph, his relationship with the Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator helps to connect the dots for a possible signing.
Joseph spent the last four seasons playing for the Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles, and Los Angeles Chargers. However, he spent six seasons under Mike Zimmer in Minnesota with the Vikings.
Joseph will be 36 years old this season, proving he is no spring chicken anymore. However, for one season, he could be a force in the middle of a defense that needs help stopping the run and a mentor to help teach the new system to the younger guys.
Stephon Gilmore, CB
Of all the moves presented, this feels like the one the Cowboys should have made already. Stephon Gilmore was traded to Dallas ahead of the 2023 season and was slated to be the CB2 opposite Trevon Diggs.
However, it didn’t go quite to plan, as Diggs tore his ACL, forcing Gilmore to slide into the No. 1 spot. Gilmore didn’t miss a game and performed admirably in 2023. While he showed signs of age, he still proved capable and worthy of retention.
Stephon Gilmore called GAME😤 pic.twitter.com/RoiQsBHOvD
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) October 17, 2023
What may be hindering Gilmore’s re-signing in Dallas — and anywhere else for that matter — is his offseason shoulder surgery as he nears 34 years of age.
Gilmore finished 2023 with 68 total tackles and two interceptions, and if the money makes sense, so does the fit to bring him back into the mix this season to try and run back what they had hoped to have last season.
Cam Akers, RB
Running back is a total mystery for the Cowboys right now. Old friend Ezekiel Elliott is back in the fold, but an RB by committee is the most likely approach.
With Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn, and veteran Royce Freeman in the mix, nothing should stop Dallas from adding to the position if they thought they could get an upgrade.
MORE: Best Remaining NFL Free Agents: 10 Players Who Can Still Help a Team
Insert Cam Akers, another young RB to try to help the team. Akers has dealt with injuries throughout his young career and hasn’t been able to find his footing within the league. At just 24 years old, this is the type of low-cost, low-risk chance the Cowboys love to take, especially with no defined starter yet.
Akers is only one full season removed from when he tallied 786 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 4.2 yards a carry. If Dallas believes they can tap into that version of Akers, it may be worth a training camp flyer to bring him in.
Michael Thomas, WR
Michael Thomas may be the biggest name and the most intriguing fit on this list. With no defined WR3 on the roster, Thomas would provide a résumé that surpasses any other option.
Thomas’ last few seasons have been a struggle for the veteran WR, but a fresh start and a chance to play with Dak Prescott in a potent offense may be just what Thomas needs.
Michael Thomas is BACK, ladies and gentlemen 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/nfNknsJ5kQ
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) September 19, 2023
The Cowboys love to add talent looking for second chances, and a guy like Thomas may not command a ton money-wise. The situation may almost make too much sense to explore.
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At one point Thomas was one of the best WRs in the NFL. Now Dallas doesn’t need him to be that. However, if he can regain some of his old form, and do so at a palatable cap number, this is the exact type of move the Cowboys yearn for.