The Dallas Cowboys find themselves embroiled in internal turmoil, which is far from an ideal situation as they approach the 2024 season. Jerry Jones had previously declared the team’s commitment to making a Super Bowl run, but the current circumstances suggest a departure from that goal.
Last season marked a departure from the norm, with Mike McCarthy taking over play-calling duties and Dak Prescott delivering one of his most impressive statistical performances, dominating discussions for the MVP title throughout the regular season. Prescott ended the 2023 regular season among the top five NFL quarterbacks in several key categories, boasting 4,516 yards (ranking 3rd), 36 touchdowns (ranking 1st), 9 interceptions, and a QB rating of 72.5 (ranking 2nd).
Prescott and CeeDee Lamb formed a formidable partnership, emerging as arguably the league’s premier QB/WR duo. Alongside Prescott’s explosive offense, which averaged 389 yards and 30 points per game and racked up 77 touchdowns in the regular season, the Dallas Cowboys boasted a defense that ranked 5th in the NFL.
Despite high hopes, the Cowboys suffered another disappointing early playoff exit. Heading into the offseason, the organization faced more uncertainties than resolutions.
Jones opted to retain McCarthy as head coach and Prescott as quarterback for the 2024 season, with expectations of extending Prescott’s contract to free up salary cap space for recruiting new talent to replace departed players in free agency. However, since the conclusion of the 2023 season, the Dallas leadership has taken minimal action. Reports indicate that Prescott will play out the final year of his existing contract, severely limiting the team’s ability to bolster its roster through free agency.
Thus far, the Cowboys have seen significant departures, including starting running back Tony Pollard, starting tackle Tyron Smith, and wide receiver Michal Gallup, among others, all joining new teams in free agency.
Dallas Cowboys Can Expect Potential Holdout From CeeDee Lamb
Jones and his team seem to be making missteps at every turn. They should have prioritized extending All-Pro WR CeeDee Lamb by now, but like their other decisions this offseason, they’ve chosen inaction.
Lamb is on the brink of a significant contract extension as he approaches the final year of his rookie deal. Dallas Morning News reporter Michael Gehlken recently highlighted the possibility of a contract holdout, stating that Lamb won’t participate in the spring workout program starting April 15 unless a contract extension is finalized, one that is expected to make him the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history.
While it’s probable that Dallas will eventually extend Lamb, dealing with a potential holdout is far from ideal. Compounded with the uncertainty surrounding QB Dak Prescott’s contract extension, the additional contract issues and ensuing drama aren’t doing any favors for the morale of Cowboys fans.
Dallas Cowboys Predicted To Replace Michel Gallup With Explosive WR Troy Franklin
The Dallas Cowboys are at a juncture where a successful NFL Draft is crucial if they aim to contend for the Lombardi Trophy in 2024.
Reports from Bleacher Report suggest that Dallas is eyeing a replacement for Gallup in the upcoming draft. Their latest mock draft indicates a focus on offense, with the Cowboys projected to select Oregon WR prospect Troy Franklin in the third round.
Franklin showcased his talent as the standout receiver in Oregon’s explosive 2023 offense. While he may not garner the same level of attention as some other prospects, his skill set is evident.
Although Franklin isn’t a perfect match for Gallup, being primarily an outside WR, his proficiency in catching deep passes could complement the Cowboys’ offensive scheme effectively.
In his previous seasons, Franklin demonstrated solid production, recording 61 receptions for 891 yards and 9 touchdowns. While not eye-popping, his 14.6 yards per reception and 9 touchdowns indicate his ability to make impactful plays.
However, it’s Franklin’s breakout performance in his final season at Oregon that truly stands out. With 81 receptions, 1383 receiving yards, and 14 touchdowns, he showcased his ability to be a game-changer. His average of 17.1 yards per catch further highlights his big-play potential.
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein likened Franklin to New Orleans Saints star Chris Olave, drawing parallels in their playing styles. This comparison, along with Zierlein’s analysis, suggests that Franklin could seamlessly fit into the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive scheme and fill a significant void.
Leave a Reply