Former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Eric Kendricks is surprisingly a free agent seven weeks into the 2025 season. Earlier this month, the veteran linebacker received interest from the Baltimore Ravens to join their practice squad after going through a workout for the franchise.
However, the ex-Cowboy reportedly declined the Ravens’ practice squad offer, which is not that shocking, as Kendricks likely believes he can be on a team’s 53-man roster. Dallas fans would love to see the 33-year-old linebacker return to the team as Jack Sanborn, who came over from Chicago in free agency with Matt Eberflus, has been a massive disappointment.
That said, five days ago, Kendricks posted a picture on Instagram of himself with workout gear and a Cowboys helmet (h/t Jimmy J's Hair/Twitter). Coincidentally, second-year defender Marshawn Kneeland was one of the people who liked said image.
Eric Kendricks Teases Idea of Potentially Returning to Play for Cowboys
When Cowboys fans saw this picture on social media, they were immediately open to Kendricks returning to Dallas despite his age. Based on what they’ve seen from Kenneth Murray and Jack Sanborn, the fan base believes Kendricks would be the team’s best linebacker, which would be a strong indictment of the current situation.
Last season in Dallas, the veteran linebacker played well under the direction of then-defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. Kendricks was a tackling machine, racking up 138 stops (second-most of his career), while also adding four tackles for loss, three QB hits, three pass deflections, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions.
Kendricks wasn’t the best in pass coverage, possessing a 72.2 completion percentage allowed on targets, a 101.0 pass rating allowed when targeted, and giving up two TDs. However, he was solid against the run and made some noise as a pass rusher (78.5 grade, per Pro Football Focus).
Cowboys fans were surprised that the team didn’t re-sign Kendricks in the offseason and opted to go with Murray and Sanborn. However, the veteran linebacker underwent offseason shoulder surgery, which could’ve played a role in Dallas’ decision at LB.
That said, fans are ready for a change as they’re tired of seeing Murray and Sanborn get beaten every week. Sanborn has an 88.9 completion percentage allowed on targets and a 111.3 pass rating allowed when targeted.
Meanwhile, Murray has been equally as bad in pass coverage, allowing 262 receiving yards, a 115.8 pass rating, and one receiving touchdown.
Kendricks might not solve Dallas’ defensive issues as a whole, which falls on the shoulders of Eberflus. However, if the Cowboys are looking for a quick fix at linebacker, they have the perfect option available for the taking.