6 Signings That Would Save the Cowboys' Disappointing Free Agency

1. Arik Armstead, DT

As of now, Arik Armstead isn't a free agent but he's expected to be released by the San Francisco 49ers as soon as free agency officially opens. Armstead has been a fixture on the San Francisco defensive line over the past nine seasons. He's registered 302 tackles and 33.5 sacks while playing multiple positions across the line.

Standing 6-foot-7 and 290 pounds, Armstead boasts an impressive form and has incredibly long arms — which allows him to control opposing offensive linemen. He's played both the interior and on the edge and recorded 10 sacks for the 49ers in 2019.

He turned that into a massive extension, signing a five-year, $85 million deal with $48.5 million of that guaranteed. Heading into the 2024 season, San Francisco wanted him to take a pay cut but he was unwilling to do so, leading to his reported departure.

There will be no shortage of suitors and his price tag could be an issue for the aggravatingly frugal Dallas front office. But if they truly listen to defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who wants to win at the line of scrimmage, adding a player of Armstead's caliber will help the entire defense.

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