Cowboys Free Agency: OL Luke Joeckel Brings Low Risk, High Reward

The Dallas Cowboys have built the best offensive line in football over the last few years, using first round picks on three linemen, and signing a fourth first round talent as an undrafted free agent.

Then, before the playoffs began in 2016, the Cowboys signed former Arizona Cardinals first round pick Jonathan Cooper. Despite being a disappointment in his career thus far, the Cowboys believed they could potentially “fix” Cooper, who clearly has the physical tools necessary to be a successful interior lineman in the league.

Now sitting with four first round offensive linemen on their roster, the Cowboys have a chance to add a fifth this offseason. That player, is former Jacksonville Jaguars number two overall pick Luke Joeckel.

Someone will take a chance on Luke Joeckel believing their system can fix him. Disappointing as LT and LG though, not a quality FA.

— Andy Benoit (@Andy_Benoit) February 23, 2017

Since being drafted with the second overall pick in 2013, Joeckel’s career has gone downhill quickly. Failing at both tackle and guard in Jacksonville, Joeckel now sits as a free agent looking for a second chance in the NFL.

The question becomes, which team is willing to give it to him?

Why not the Cowboys?

For a few reasons, the Cowboys are the perfect landing spot for Luke Joeckel in free agency.

Dallas loves to take chances on these kind of players, especially on the offensive line. Similar to how they did with Jonathan Cooper, Dallas might sign Joeckel believing that their environment will be conducive to developing his skills.

Being surrounded by All-Pro players like Tyron Smith, Zack Martin, and Travis Frederick could be beneficial to Joeckel, helping both his technique and attitude towards football. Where as in Jacksonville Joeckel was on a losing team, and played for a franchise which has been abysmal since its inception, he would be joining a 13-3 division champion in Dallas.

The Cowboys also have a need for a swing tackle. Considering the health issues of former third rounder Chaz Green, and the age of starting right tackle Doug Free, the Cowboys should be in the market to either draft or a sign a potential future replacement for Free.

As a player, Joeckel has been flawed. Plagued by injuries for much of his career, Joeckel has been unable to stay on the field, and has been ineffective when he’s been healthy enough to play.

Still, Joeckel is a 6’6″ 300-plus-pound physical specimen who can play both inside at guard and outside at tackle. Taking a chance on him would be a low risk, high reward move for the Cowboys in free agency.