Dallas Cowboys: 5 offseason needs

2. Figure out David Irving

DeMarcus Lawrence is not the only productive member of the Cowboys defensive line that is set to hit free agency. Teammate David Irving is also ready to hit the open market. Dallas is in an interesting spot with Irving.

The talented lineman, and former practice squad player, has been a conundrum for NFL teams since he entered the league. He is coming off a season where he appeared in only eight games. Four of those lost games were due to a PED suspension. The other four were due to a concussion. When he was on the field he was a disruptive force, playing all over the defensive line. Despite only appearing in half the games he was second on the team in sacks with seven. There is no question that he is talented and a rare blend of size, power and athleticism.

Luckily for Dallas, Irving is a restricted free agent which gives them an advantage. If the team would like they can put a first round tender on him and pay him for next season while they figure out the details. K.D. Drummond of Cowboys Wire lays out the scenario in detail here. 

The big debate is if Irving is worth the headache he has given the team. Obviously there is the PED suspension that cost him four games this season. The team also was worried that Irving was hiding symptoms of his concussion that cost him four games. His time at Iowa State was also a rollercoaster that caused him to go undrafted.

There are also rumors surrounding his work ethic. All those concerns could cause the Cowboys to stick him with a lower tender and see if a team bites, giving them an extra pick. Irving’s situation will likely have an impact on free agency and the Cowboys’ draft plans.