4 free agents the Cowboys should happily let leave
By Nick Villano
The Dallas Cowboys had moments this past season where it appeared this could be a true contender, but it was clear that wasn’t the case. There should be somewhat of a reset this offseason, letting these four free agents walk.
The Dallas Cowboys are in offseason mode as we approach the Big Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs. Seeing a division rival fight for a title must light a fire under the Cowboys. We know that there’s perpetual pressure on the Cowboys. Being America’s Team and having Jerry Jones as an owner automatically raises expectations. They need to find the right players to put them in championship contention this offseason.
To bring new players in, the team has to let some go. The Cowboys already have to make moves, as they go into the offseason $7 million over the salary cap, according to Over the Cap. However, some very small moves would save them a ton on the cap. Cutting Ezekiel Elliott would save them more than $10 million if they did it after June 1st.
With that said, the Cowboys have 24 free agents going into the offseason. Some stars include running back Tony Pollard, linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr, and offensive tackle Jason Peters. However, there is one free agent who very obviously shouldn’t be re-signed this offseason.
Cowboys: 4 free agents Dallas should happily let leave
4. K Brett Maher
There is no way the Cowboys should bring back kicker Brett Maher. He was awful down the stretch. The Cowboys had to bring a kicker on the practice squad just to feel safe in the playoffs. Not only was he missing kicks, he was missing extra points. He was 1-6 on extra points in the postseason. That’s literally the easiest part of his job.
Jerry Jones already said the Cowboys are starting over at kicker. Maher might not be anywhere in the league next year. That’s crazy, considering he hit 90% of his kicks in the regular season. Maher fell apart at the end of the season and in the playoffs. His confidence is gone. Can he get it back? That’s a problem for another team to figure out.