The Dallas Cowboys have cleared $66 million in salary cap space ahead of the 2024 NFL offseason, positioning themselves for significant roster moves. This development comes as the NFL free agency period approaches on March 11, enabling the team to pursue key improvements. The Cowboys achieved this by restructuring the contracts of quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, and offensive guard Tyler Smith.
Last week, the Cowboys also freed up $6.5 million by releasing linebacker Logan Wilson, a post-deadline acquisition from the previous season. Prior to these moves, Dallas was approximately $30 million over the salary cap, but the recent restructures have reversed that status, putting them in a strong financial position for offseason spending.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, these changes will allow Dallas to operate with much greater flexibility.
The Cowboys will restructure the contracts of QB Dak Prescott, WR CeeDee Lamb and G Tyler Smith, which will create $66 million of room,
Schefter reported. Additionally, the team is expected to adjust contracts for defensive tackles Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams, and Osa Odighizuwa, whose combined cap hits approach $63 million.
Jerry Jones Signals Intent for Aggressive Offseason Moves
Team owner Jerry Jones has hinted that the Cowboys are preparing for a busy and impactful offseason aimed at improving their performance. Over a month ago, Jones indicated that the franchise plans to make bold moves as part of their strategy.
We want to, while Dak [Prescott] is playing the game and got it down the way he’s got it, we want to get out here and do better than what we did this year,
Jones said.
So a combination of those things give us the incentive to, dare I say it, bust the budget to try to get something down now, yes. We’ll do some dramatic things.
Potential Targets and Roster Priorities
Recent reports suggest the Cowboys may set their sights on acquiring linebacker Nakobe Dean from the Philadelphia Eagles. Dean, a former third-round draft pick, showed impressive numbers during the 2024 season, tallying 128 tackles, four pass break-ups, three sacks, and two fumble recoveries. Despite missing time in 2025 due to injury, he still contributed 55 tackles, four sacks, and two forced fumbles. His skill set could address the Cowboys’ needs on defense as they prepare for the upcoming season.
With this significant cap relief, the Cowboys are expected to be active in free agency and potentially in trade discussions, aiming to strengthen their roster depth and address critical positions ahead of the 2024 campaign.
The Cowboys will restructure the contracts of QB Dak Prescott, WR CeeDee Lamb and G Tyler Smith, which will create $66 million of room.
Jerry Jones said the Cowboys will rework the contracts of DTs Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams and Osa Odighizuwa, who are scheduled to count… https://t.co/L1hZWlO1yk
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 28, 2026
Look for the Cowboys to pursue Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean in free agency. He knows Christian Parker’s scheme @DLLS_Cowboys
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) February 26, 2026
