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4 Budget-Friendly Free Agency Moves the Cowboys Should Make

It is pretty clear that the Dallas Cowboys will be living up to their reputation for not spending big during free agency. However, there are a few low-cost playmakers that could fill key positions while not breaking the bank.

By Dylan Lofton

Jan 3, 2021; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs the
Jan 3, 2021; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs the / Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
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2. Sign Xavien Howard on a One-Year Deal

The Cowboys have an opening at cornerback. Stephen Gilmore has not been re-signed, leaving one side of the field vulnerable. Xavien Howard is a proven NFL veteran who would supplement Trevon Diggs on the other side of the secondary.

Xavien Howard has already claimed that he is not simply money motivated this offseason, and he would make a solid addition to the secondary. And the former Baylor Bear may welcome a return to his home state. Age is a concern, but this is a temporary option to strengthen the secondary. Xavien Howard has proven to be a ballhawk, leading the league for most interceptions of any NFL player since 2017. This is a solid option that meets a critical personnel need and that is within the Cowboys budget.

3. Sign Josh Woods for Linebacker Depth

Improving depth at linebacker is mission critical for the Cowboys. The retirement of former first-round pick Leighton Vander Esch dealt a strong blow to the Cowboys run defense. While the linebacker position may be addressed in the draft, adding Josh Woods would not be a bad idea.

Josh Woods has spent around six years in the NFL. The veteran is a cheap option with a former salary of around 1.6 million a year. Additionally, the Maryland product is coming off a season with a career high 61 tackles over only 11 games.

While injury may be a concern, the linebacker appears to be entering his prime at the relatively young age of 27. He offers a solid option for depth at linebacker, and a great addition on special teams.

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