Uncertain future

However, while Ellis is due a $500,000 roster bonus before March 1 and is scheduled to count $3.35 million on the 2006 salary cap, that's not abnormally high, especially considering he had eight sacks, tying for the team lead with rookie DeMarcus Ware.

So it's not out of the question the Cowboys keep Ellis, who Parcells said earlier this month was "still a very good player."

While Ellis' contract isn't out of control, there are a few other players whose contracts are becoming less cap-friendly.

Two would include Pro Bowl guard Larry Allen, who is due a $2 million roster bonus, and defensive tackle La'Roi Glover, who is due a $1.5 million bonus if he's on the roster after March 1.

[snip]

... and even wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson, who is expected to make just $1.5 million in base salary next year. With Johnson, he no doubt will be looking for a bigger contract. And that is likely why the Cowboys will have a tough decision to make with the wide receiver who led the team with 71 receptions this year.

In fact, of the nine unrestricted players, only tight end Dan Campbell, the team's offensive captain and locker-room leader, appears to be a must-sign. The Cowboys might have an interest in bringing back guard/center Andre Gurode, who is expected to test free agency, and linebacker Scott Fujita.

But as for safeties Lynn Scott and Tony Dixon, linebackers Eric Ogbogu, Mike Barrow and Quinton Caver and offensive tackle Marcus Price, don't expect them to be high-priorities for the Cowboys next season.

Of the three restricted free agents, expect safety Keith Davis, linebacker Scott Shanle and offensive tackle Torrin Tucker to all receive tenders. Davis is the team's best special teams player and Shanle was rather productive taking over for Nguyen, starting seven games and is probably seen as a nickel linebacker. Tucker had some moments while taking over for the injured Flozell Adams (torn ACL), but didn't show he was ready to become a full-time starter.