The Dallas Cowboys have been cautious when it comes to handing out lengthy contract extensions in recent years. Instead, they’ve often opted for one-year deals with veterans, letting several key players leave for bigger contracts in free agency. In 2024, the team saw the departure of Dorance Armstrong, Tony Pollard, and Tyler Biadasz. Similarly, Osa Odighizuwa will likely attract significant attention on the open market in 2025, and the Cowboys may not be willing to match that price.
While the Cowboys have extended some productive, but not elite, players like Donovan Wilson, Malik Hooker, and Jayron Kearse, they have consistently preferred short-term solutions. But after solid performances this year, here are five players the Cowboys should consider locking down with extensions.
1. Brock Hoffman, IOL
Brock Hoffman may not have earned a starting spot out of training camp, but he’s played his way into a position of importance for the Cowboys. With Zack Martin, the future Hall of Famer, heading into free agency, Hoffman has shown he can be a reliable starter. Though his skills are not yet on par with Martin’s, Hoffman has brought a much-needed toughness to the running game, and his recent performances have made him a prime candidate to fill the gap.
2. Eric Kendricks, LB
Eric Kendricks was one of the Cowboys’ most important free-agent signings this offseason, and he’s been everything they hoped for and more. The 32-year-old linebacker leads the team with 107 tackles, three sacks, and one interception. His leadership and ability to quarterback the defense have been crucial, especially considering the Cowboys’ struggles this year. Kendricks may be in the latter part of his career, but his performance this season proves he still has plenty left in the tank.
3. Carl Lawson, EDGE
Carl Lawson’s addition to the Cowboys’ defensive line has been a major boost. Since Week 5, Lawson has been one of the NFL’s best at applying pressure to quarterbacks. Despite being a late addition, Lawson has posted 11 tackles and four sacks in 10 games, providing solid relief following injuries to Sam Williams, Marshawn Kneeland, and DeMarcus Lawrence. If Lawrence moves on in free agency, bringing back Lawson would be a wise move to keep the pass rush intact.
4. Rico Dowdle, RB
It took the Cowboys a little while to recognize it, but Rico Dowdle is their best running back. After being relegated to a backup role early in the season, Dowdle has seized his opportunity, rushing for 600 yards, adding 195 receiving yards, and scoring four total touchdowns. While the team could still look to add another running back in the draft, Dowdle has proven to be a reliable option and should be re-signed to solidify the backfield.
DAK TO DOWDLE. HOW DID THIS GET COMPLETED??
📺: #DALvsATL on FOX
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/gQOFAxj8r1— NFL (@NFL) November 3, 2024
5. KaVontae Turpin, WR/KR
KaVontae Turpin has finally been used creatively in the Cowboys’ offense, and he’s delivered in a big way. Known as one of the NFL’s best return specialists, Turpin leads the league with a 36.3-yard average per kickoff return, including a 99-yard touchdown. But his contributions don’t stop there. He’s also been effective on offense, with 344 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. Turpin’s speed and playmaking ability make him a unique weapon, and the Cowboys would be wise to retain him going forward.
TURPIN RETURNS IT 99-YARDS TO THE HOUSE 😱
(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/TemErsmk1n
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 24, 2024
Conclusion
While the Cowboys are no strangers to letting key free agents walk, this offseason presents an opportunity to lock up some important contributors. Brock Hoffman, Eric Kendricks, Carl Lawson, Rico Dowdle, and KaVontae Turpin have all shown enough this season to earn extensions. Keeping these players in Dallas would not only stabilize key positions but also help build a foundation for future success. With free agency looming, these five players should be at the top of the Cowboys’ to-do list.
