The NFL's annual spring meeting in Florida is currently taking place, giving the Dallas Cowboys' brass an opportunity to talk with the media. Executive vice president Stephen Jones was available to answer questions about the Cowboys' offseason thus far, which gave him a chance to once again infuriate his fanbase.
In speaking about their offseason moves, Jones said the quiet part about the team's free agent philosophy out loud.
Cowboys EVP Stephen Jones on free agency: “We’re not done yet. We still got some things that are out standing that we’re trying to get done. Missed a few guys along the way too in terms of the number just being a lot higher than we thought it would be on a couple guys. Overall… pic.twitter.com/iuksA5RWrb
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) March 30, 2025
"We’re not done yet. We still got some things that are outstanding that we’re trying to get done. Missed a few guys along the way too in terms of the number just being a lot higher than we thought it would be on a couple guys. Overall we’re real pleased with what we were able to do with our roster and help the team.”
In simpler terms, the Cowboys missed out on some of their targets because the team wasn't willing to pay what the market dictated. This is a longstanding offseason tradition for the organization, only willing to pay what they believe his worth to be. It's an important distinction that keeps the Cowboys from improving through free agency.
The front office set their bar on outside free agents at $6 million a season years ago, and they've decided anyone who goes above that number is out of their price range. It's an absurd way to do business in free agency, where good players are expected to sign where they get the most money and security. Dallas, with their one-year deals and always trying to find a bargain, have a hard time competing with the rest of the league.
So, who are these players the Cowboys missed out on along the way? Jones didn't provide the names, but the team was reported to be in on linebacker Dre Greenlaw and wide receiver Cooper Kupp before they saw what it would take to sign him, as well as LB E.J. Speed, who recently signed with the Houston Texans.
The #Cowboys were reportedly in on LB E.J Speed before signing with the Houston Texans per @AaronWilson_NFL.
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) March 30, ...
Speed would have been another quality player in the LB room. He also has familiarity with Matt Eberflus, who coached him with the Colts for three seasons. https://t.co/KM7lWVVSoopic.twitter.com/ucTJrfqcKC
