Allen Hurns’ release presents big opportunities for the Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys announced the release of wide receiver Allen Hurns and that’s good news for anyone wanting a more explosive offense

In an extremely not-so-surprising bit of news, the Dallas Cowboys announced they have released Allen Hurns. Hurns had one year left on his deal but at a cost of $6, 250,000 and slotted no higher than fourth on the depth chart, something clearly had to give.

According to Adam Schefter, the Dallas Cowboys wanted to keep Hurns on a lower dollar deal but Hurns felt the open market would provide better opportunity. With the release, Dallas loses one of their most versatile and reliable weapons, but gains opportunities elsewhere. On a depth chart loaded with young talent, Hurns’ exit creates an opening for one of the many explosive players residing down the depth chart.

Players like Jon’Vea Johnson, Cedrick Wilson, and Jaylon Guyton will all fight for a roster spot previously unavailable to them. Sure, one of them could have outperformed Allen Hurns in camp. But who’s to say Jason Garrett signs off on an unproven player over a trusted commodity? Garrett is on the hot seat, coaching on the last year of his deal, he’s not looking to develop players who can help down the road. He wants players who can help him now. Allen Hurns offered him security.

Hurns’ release also helps Noah Brown retain a roster spot. Some speculated it was either Hurns or Brown making the team. Not both since neither offered much in speed. Keeping Brown is quietly a smart move since Brown’s blocking is such an integral part of this offense. If he was cut loose, it’s likely a TE would have to pick up the slack. That kind of personnel change would greatly impact the appearance of the Cowboys’ offense.

Hurns was adored by his teammates and coaches, but after suffering a gruesome injury last winter in the playoffs, it was unknown if/when he’d be available. Hurns rallied his rehab and appears to be good to go. That recovery is what provided urgency in this move. It also makes him optimistic in catching on with another team.

The savings in money almost becomes secondary. Hurns frees up $4 million in cap space. Cap space that can be used to ink certain core players to shiny new extensions. But those extensions were going to get done regardless. It’s the roster spot that’s most important.

Looking at the numbers, the Dallas Cowboys have quite a log jam at the receiver position heading into camp. Even with Hurns gone it looks like quite the competition. Amari Cooper, Michael Gallup, and Randall Cobb are all locks to make the team. And since the Cowboys typically keep just six receivers, that only leaves three spots.

That means Noah Brown, Tavon Austin, Cedrick Wilson, Reggie Davis, Jalen Guyton, Jon’Vea Johnson, Lance Lenoir, and Devin Smith are duking it out for the last three spots.

This move is good news for Cowboys fans hoping to see more speed and more big plays on offense. It forces the Cowboys to invest in the future and it saves a few bucks to boot.

While releasing Hurns wasn’t an obvious move, it was expected in some regard since Hurns was coming off injury, cost significant dollars, and had little upside. This move is good news for the Dallas Cowboys’ young receivers and promising news for the growth of the offense.

• Published on 07/24/2019 at 11:00 AM
• Last updated at 07/23/2019 at 18:35 PM