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5 targets for Cowboys in 2023 free agency

By Rucker Haringey

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports) /
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Zach Allen would boost the Cowboys’ pass rush. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Zach Allen would boost the Cowboys’ pass rush. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Zach Allen

Allen isn’t the top defensive tackle in this year’s free-agent class but he might have the highest upside. The Cowboys should be willing to pay a premium for a 25-year-old defensive lineman coming off his best season as a professional.

The former Boston College standout came into the NFL as a potential edge rusher but quickly moved inside. That’s where he blossomed in 2022 as a quality pass-rusher for Arizona’s defense. Injuries limited him to just 13 regular-season games but he posted a career-high 5.5 sacks.

The key for Allen moving forward is to prove that his run defense last season wasn’t a fluke. He’s put on some weight but he’s still very light for a defensive tackle. The Cowboys can bet on him to be an average run defender but anything more would represent a major surprise.

Allen will draw lots of interest in free agency but the Cowboys should be near the top of his list. They have a clear need at defensive tackle he can fill and the opportunity to play with some other young, talented defenders should appeal to him. If Dallas makes a competitive financial offer they have a chance to steal him away from the Cardinals.

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