The Dallas Cowboys spent all offseason trying to sort out what back up Kyle Orton’s intentions were. In June, Orton was a no-show for the Cowboys mandatory minicamp.
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There reports that he was going to retire, there were then reports that the Cowboys expected Orton to show up at training camp. Ultimately, Orton was released by the Dallas Cowboys who felt confident enough in Brandon Weeden to go forward without Orton.
In a new twist, Orton reportedly doesn’t want to retire and plans to play in the 2014 season, suggesting that his standoff was simply an effort to force his way out.
Jerry Jones said that Kyle Orton doesnt not want to retire and wants to play this year. Orton won the standoff.
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) July 23, 2014
according to jones, Orton was going to report to camp, forcing the cowboys hand
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) July 23, 2014
Though Jones is spinning it differently than Orton winning a standoff and claiming it was a move to create financial flexibility.
Jerry Jones said the Cowboys released Kyle Orton to save cap room and use that money on other players. Orton was scheduled to make $3M
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) July 23, 2014
The financial flexibility that came with the release of Orton will allow the Cowboys to make some other moves, like signing wide receiver Dez Bryant and left tackle Tyron Smith.
Jerry Jones said the Cowboys can use the Orton money to sign Dez Bryant, Tyrone Smith or add a player to the roster if necessary
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) July 23, 2014