5 Cowboys on Thin Ice Heading Into Free Agency

The Dallas Cowboys head into free agency following another early playoff exit. The franchise's Super Bowl drought is closing in on 30 years, meaning the pressure is on for the Cowboys to bring the Lombardi Trophy back to Big D next February — regardless of what Jerry Jones' definition of "all in" is.

Dallas has roster spots to fill this offseason, as well as areas it must upgrade. Some returning Cowboys left much to be desired last season, putting their future with the franchise in jeopardy with free agency beginning on March 13.

Here are five Cowboys who are on thin ice with the NFL's free agent period right around the corner.

1. WR Michael Gallup

It was only in 2019 that Michael Gallup looked like the perfect No. 2 wide receiver for the Cowboys. The former Colorado State playmaker was consistent throughout his sophomore year, racking up 66 receptions for 1,107 receiving yards and six touchdowns.

Unfortunately, Gallup hasn't come close to reaching those heights since then.

The 28-year-old veteran has failed to reach the 500-yard mark in each of the last three seasons. While injuries played somewhat of a factor, health wasn't an excuse in 2023 as Gallup put up an uninspiring 34-418-2 stat line while suiting up in all 17 games.

Assuming that he can't turn things around, Gallup's five-year, $57.5 million contract looks worse by the day. He still has three years remaining on the deal and carries a $13.85 million cap hit in 2024, which worsens when you consider that the Cowboys are $4 million over the salary cap, per Spotrac.

Nevertheless, Dallas can free up $9.5 million by trading/waiving Gallup after June 1, so it wouldn't surprise me if they found a cheaper/more consistent upgrade in free agency.

Considering how Jones isn't even sure what to do with the struggling WR, the ice might break beneath Gallup's feet sooner rather than later.