With free agency just a couple of days away, I wanted a look at one of the positions the Cowboys might address in free agency, and who they could be looking to possibly sign.
There’s no arguing that the Cowboys pass rush was inconsistent, if anything at all, last season. And the position that was probably the most inconsistent of them all was the defensive end. But I will say, it wasn’t because a lack of effort.
Jeremy Mincey hustled his tail off on every snap. Anthony Spencer finally started to regain some of his old form by the end of the season. Rookie DeMarcus Lawrence, after missing over half the season because of a broken foot, started to show flashes of why the team traded up in the 2nd round to choose him. George Selvie surprised everyone with his play in 2013, however couldn’t seem to find that same form in 2014.
With Mincey and Lawrence the only two defensive ends that are locks to return in 2015, the likelihood of the team bringing in some new rushmen is very high.
I don’t expect the Cowboys to make a huge splash in free agency – which includes the likes of Ndamukong Suh and the talented yet controversial Greg Hardy.
Two players I want fans to keep an eye on are Brandon Graham (Eagles) and Pernell McPhee (Ravens). Both men played outside linebacker. Graham is believed to have played out of position in the 3-4 defense of the Eagles. He is much better suited to have his hand in the dirt coming off the line in a 4-3 defense.
McPhee, like Graham, played outside linebacker. He was the backup for Elvis Dumervil and Terrell Suggs, yet still put up nearly 8 sacks last season. But he, also like Graham, can play defensive end.
Both players have the ability to get to the quarterback and play good run defense and both players would fit nicely in Rod Marinelli’s defense.
The Cowboys will have a limited presence in free agency with most of their available cap going toward their own free agents, but there is interest in both of these players to fill the need at defensive end. I believe the Cowboys will at least discuss possible contracts with one or both men during free agency.
A lot of things can happen once free agency starts, but it wouldn’t shock me at all to see Graham or McPhee wearing a star on their helmet next season.
