Dallas Cowboys free agency 2018: Top 5 targets
By Joe Romano
3. Justin Pugh, G
Former team: New York Giants
Last year the Dallas Cowboys tried to sign a former first round pick to man their guard spot. Johnathan Cooper did not play well and should not be the team’s starting guard next year. The player that should fill that void is not currently on the roster.
Dallas has one of the best offensive lines in football with Tyron Smith, Travis Fredrick, Zach Martin and La’el Collins. What they are missing is that fifth piece, a left guard. That is where former New York Giant Justin Pugh comes in.
The Cowboys cannot spend big on this position, which is why many are looking to a deep draft class at the guard position for answers. If the route is instead free agency, Pugh would be a wise choice.
An injury-prone player, Pugh could come at the right price for a team not looking to shell out massive money for a player like Andrew Norwell. Like Cooper, Pugh is a former first round pick. Unlike Cooper, when healthy Pugh warrants Pro Bowl consideration. He is a solid blocker in both the run and passing game. Sandwiched between All-Pros in Smith and Fredrick will also make his life easier.
Solidifying the left guard spot is a huge priority for this staff. Quarterback Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott are extremely talented. If they have the best offensive line in football in front of them again, this team should be in contention for the playoffs and best record in the league. Pugh can help that line become the best once again.