Cowboys (Halloween Edition): 4 possible nightmare scenarios

Too Many Free Agents to Keep

We can chalk this up to “a good problem to have”. But since it’s avoidable and potentially painful and irreversible, I’m calling this one of my biggest nightmare scenarios to date. With Dak Prescott, Amari Cooper, Byron Jones, Robert Quinn, and Maliek Collins all set to be free agents, what happens if all them play at top level down the stretch and enter the offseason unsigned?

Obviously Dak takes top priority, but he’s increasing his price tag each and every week. He turned down $30M per season before the season started  – and that was when he was just a top-10 passer. What happens now that he’s leading the NFL in QBR and ranking at the top in most major categories?

The same really goes for Amari Cooper. He was widely considered a top 7-15 WR before the season started, but now most will admit he belongs in the Top-5. It’s been said Coop is looking to be compensated as the highest paid WR in the NFL. It’s going to be hard to sign both players long-term this winter, even with the franchise tag and transition tag at their disposal.

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To make matters worse, the uncertain status makes it virtually impossible to re-sign Byron Jones, Robert Quinn, and Maliek Collins. Some may see that as a good thing: Byron is going to be demanding top-5 money despite having virtually no sense for the football (2 career interceptions). Collins is having his best pass-rushing season to date but also his worst run-stopping effort. Quinn is on pace for 16+ sacks this season but has been atrocious against the run.

So it makes sense some aren’t enthralled with these three. But if they correct their deficiencies they may be too important to lose. And if the Dallas Cowboys are handcuffed by Prescott and Coop, they may be forced to watch elite players walk out the door just because they couldn’t get deals done earlier.

While there’s plenty of reason for excitement, let’s pump the breaks on our confidence because there are multiple ways this turns into a nightmare for the Dallas Cowboys. What’s your biggest worry?