While we all sit back and await word on DeMarco Murray, let's focus on something aside from the talented running back. Free agency features plenty of big names, and after seeing quite a few of them get snatched up, the market is still loaded with plenty of talent.
The Dallas Cowboys have been quiet to this point in free agency, but don't expect it to stay that way for long. While Dallas has an obvious interest in re-signing Murray, they'll also be quite focused on a few other players as well. Let's look at five players who are still on the market that the team should target.
Greg Hardy, Defensive End
Yes, every fan of almost every team wants to see Hardy play for them. The thing is, Hardy makes a lot of sense in Dallas. Sure, he has the off-field issues to worry about, but that's never scared the Cowboys away before, as we know. Anytime a player can put together a two-year span where he racks up 26 sacks, it's going to catch your eye.
The Cowboys have a major need for a pass rusher, and he could be a perfect fit. At age 26, he would likely have demanded a huge contract before the off-field issues, but there's a shot the Cowboys could be in play for Hardy.
Derrick Morgan, Linebacker
Our own Dave Halprin talked about the team pursuing Morgan, and he summed up the potential fit very well.
Defensive end is certainly a position of need for the Cowboys. Derrick Morgan is a former first-round pick for the Titans, but has never lived up to that lofty pedigree. He's been a steady player averaging around six sacks a year for the past three years.
I agree completely with what Dave had to say. There's a great chance that he could take the next step under Rod Marinelli, so it'd make for a very interesting fit.
Patrick Robinson, Cornerback
Once again, our head man Dave Halprin was on top of the free agency news for Dallas. He reported that the Cowboys were interested in both Antonio Cromartie and Patrick Robinson. While both of those players would be good fits, it's been reported by NJ.com that Cromartie is down to the Jets or the Cardinals.
That's not the best news, but it means that the Cowboys could be focused in on Robinson. After missing 14 games in 2013, the former Saint was back in 2014 and put together a solid year. His 39 total tackles, two interceptions and 11 pass deflections were down from his numbers in 2012 and 2011, but he was on a defense who struggled all-around last season.
The Saints gave up 6,144 yards (second worst in the NFL) and the fifth-most points allowed per game at 26.5. Robinson is only 27 years old, so he still has a very bright future and I think he'd be a great fit in Dallas. Tack on the fact that Morris Claiborne's future is still in doubt and Sterling Moore is now a free agent and it's obvious why the Cowboys could use Robinson.
Adrian Clayborn, Defensive End
This report came in from One
Clayborn has missed 28 total games over four years, but when he's been on the field he's been productive. The statistics don't lie, Clayborn can really play when he's healthy. He's combined to rack up 109 total tackles with 13 sacks and five forced fumbles in 36 games. If the Cowboys don't have to overpay, then Clayborn could be a steal.
Rolando McClain, Linebacker
Welcome back to Dallas! Well, hopefully at least. While McClain will be facing a four-game fine, that news may actually drive his value down a bit. This may make it easier for the Cowboys to re-sign him and I have no reason to believe they wouldn't want him back.
While the 'Boys just got news that they've lost Bruce Carter to the Buccaneers, and that Justin Durant signed with the Falcons yesterday, the attention needs to turn back to McClain.
It seems like we're seeing quite a few former Cowboys heading elsewhere, but keep faith that the front office has a plan and knows what they're doing. McClain revitalized his career in Dallas, which is something I believe he will take into account when choosing his new team.