Stunning Move: Cowboys May Cut $39M Star WR Brandin Cooks to Save Cap Space!
In a surprising development, the Dallas Cowboys might be forced to cut ties with veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks this offseason. According to a recent report, the Cowboys are grappling with significant salary cap challenges that could necessitate drastic measures, including parting ways with the $39 million playmaker.
The situation comes as the Cowboys look to navigate the complexities of their payroll while ensuring they can retain key players like quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Both Prescott and Lamb are entering the final year of their contracts, with a combined cap hit of $55.45 million for 2024. The team is under immense pressure to create cap space to secure long-term deals for these cornerstone players, especially as they hope to avoid any potential holdouts.
Prescott and Lamb’s contract negotiations have put the Cowboys in a precarious position. The possibility of either player holding out for a new deal before their contract year is a looming threat, and the Cowboys are keenly aware of the urgency. As such, they may have to make swift and tough decisions, one of which could involve releasing or trading Cooks to free up cap space.
Brandin Cooks, who was acquired to bolster the Cowboys’ offensive arsenal, has not delivered the level of production the team had anticipated. His underwhelming performance last season has compounded the financial strain on the Cowboys, making him a prime candidate for a cost-cutting move.
Adding to the financial puzzle, star linebacker Micah Parsons is now eligible for a contract extension. While Parsons has not shown immediate urgency, even missing the first day of organized team activities (OTAs), his future deal will inevitably add to the financial considerations the Cowboys must balance.
Currently, the Cowboys have just $1.925 million in cap space, a paltry sum for a team with aspirations of contending for a Super Bowl. This stark reality underscores the difficult decisions ahead. According to Bleacher Report, a trade or release of Cooks is viewed as the most pragmatic solution to managing the team’s bloated payroll.
Such a move, while financially sensible, would not be without its sacrifices. Brandin Cooks, despite a less-than-stellar season, remains a significant talent, and his departure would undoubtedly impact the Cowboys’ offensive depth. However, the broader goal of retaining Prescott and Lamb, coupled with the future considerations for Parsons, makes this potential move a strategic necessity.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on the Cowboys’ front office as they maneuver through these financial challenges. The potential release or trade of Brandin Cooks is just one of the many tough decisions looming on the horizon. For now, Cowboys fans can only hope that the team’s management can perform some cap space magic to keep their championship dreams alive.
