If Jerry Jones follows through on his promise to go “all in” in 2024, Dallas Cowboys supporters may anticipate the team to be among the big spenders in free agency. The Cowboys assert that they want to place all of their chips in the center of the table after years of being frugal in the offseason, mostly constructing via the NFL Draft and usually bargain-hunting in free agency.
With running back, оffensive lineman, and inside linebacker all seeming to be areas where the Cowboys may improve, if not all, of these problems might be resolved in free agency. Dallas has signed Kansas City Chief Willie Gаy Jr. to fill their need for an inside backer, according to CBS Sports.
“Gаy has now been a part of two title-winning defenses in K.C., even though his numbers have never been gaudy,” writes Cody Benjamin. “Even so, re-signing Drue Tranquill or depending on Nick Bolton is probably more probable. He’ll probably be among their native free agents on this side of the ball that is most affordable.”
Therefore, the website estimates that Gаy will head south and sign a two-year, $13 million contract with the Cowboys, who are in need of a linebacker, given the Chiefs’ preference to re-sign Tranquill and Bolton over him.
Due to Leighton Vander Esch’s ιnjury last season, the Cowboys were lacking in linebacker bodies. The former fifth-round selection Damone Clark emerged as the Dallas defense’s most seasoned starter at the second level. Markquese Bell, the converted safety who weighed just 205 pounds, was his main partner at the time.
Pro Football Focus rated Bell at an astounding 87.6 and Clark at 69.1, respectively, for their pass coverage play, but Bell and Clark were equally strong against the run. Vander Esch’s loss was most noticeable against the run. According to PFF, who gave Gаy’s run defense a 71.3 rating this past season, this is his strongest suit.
Gаy provides the kind of second-tier body the Cowboys need at 6-foot-2 and 243 pounds. This past season, the former Mississippi State standout who was selected in the second round by Kansas City started 15 of his 16 games. He finished with 58 tackles, 4 for a loss, 1 sack, an interception, and a forced fumble.
Gаy is a signing that the Cowboys could make that wouldn’t break the bank but would definitely strengthen their roster if going “all in” is indeed the team’s intention this summer.