3 Former Cowboys Still Unemployed as OTAs Arrive

The Dallas Cowboys lost several free agents this offseason and brought in next to no one to replace them. Dorance Armstrong, Dante Fowler, Jr., and Tyler Biadasz all joined Dan Quinn with the Washington Commanders. They also saw Tyron Smith join the New York Jets while Tony Pollard signed with the Tennessee Titans.

Dallas has seen the majority of their free agents sign with new teams but there are still more former Cowboys looking for a home in 2024. Here’s a look at three who remain on the open market with OTAs beginning 

3. Jayron Kearse, S

After recording 59 tackles in 11 games for the Detroit Lions during the 2020 campaign, the Cowboys decided to sign Jayron Kearse. One of three new safeties added under Dan Quinn (during his first season as their defensive coordinator), Kearse wound up being the best of the bunch.

He outperformed Malik Hooker and Damontae Kazee that year, as he recorded 101 tackles and two interceptions. Kearse quickly became a vocal leader for the defense and helped set the tone with his physical nature.

After his breakout campaign, he was signed to a two-year extension but by 2023, he was no longer making a huge impact. Kearse seemed to have lost a step and was targeted by opposing teams in pass coverage. That led to Dallas moving on this offseason as they’ll likely move Markquese Bell out of the linebacker role and back to safety.

Kearse was an excellent signing and did everything asked of him. Unfortunately, he might be at the point where he has to wait to see if an injury during camp leads to a late phone call.