Potential Targets For Cowboys As Second Phase Of Free Agency Starts May 12th

May 12th represents a significant date in NFL free agency. Any player signed by a team on or after May 12th does not count in compensatory pick math. So if the Dallas Cowboys pick up a free agent or two starting on May 12th, it will not reduce their potential compensatory picks for next year. Conversely, if someone signs Greg Hardy, it will not help the Cowboys comp picks, either.

So tomorrow might just stir up the free agent market once again. This day used to come on June 1st, but the NFL moved it up so veterans could go to OTAs with their new teams. With this in mind, let's take a look at some defensive players that might interest the Cowboys.

Secondary

Walter Thurmond - He's only 28, and had a very good year as a safety for the Eagles in 2015. Has played both corner and safety so gives a team position flex. The big question surrounding him is his desire to keep playing, it's been rumored he's contemplating retirement.

Leon Hall - The Cowboys had the 32-year-old corner in for a visit earlier in free agency but did not sign him. Hall is recovering from back surgery so teams may be waiting on that before taking the plunge. He performed well for the Bengals last year and could add some insurance on a short-term contract.

Antonio Cromartie - He's expressed his desire to be signed by Dallas, but the Cowboys haven't reciprocated so far. Another aging corner, his best days are behind him but could a vet minimum deal be the ticket?

Jerraud Powers - Has provided some solid play at corner and is still only 28 years old, but apparently is asking for too much money and the Cardinals are not giving it to him. Could he look for a change of scenery?

Linebacker

Curtis Lofton - A durable player with some success in Atlanta and New Orleans before having a poor year in Oakland last season. He's only 29 and would be an insurance policy in the middle for 2016, he specializes in run defense.

Defensive End

Jason Jones - The Cowboys expressed interest in Jones previously, so they may circle back now that the draft is over and no comp pick formula is involved. As mentioned before, Jones was a solid complement to Ziggy Ansah in Detroit and is still a viable rotation player.

Mike Neal - The Packers OLB in their 3-4 alignment could put his hand down at end in a 4-3. He's recognized as a high-motor guy, something that Rod Marinelli loves.

O'Brien Schofield - The Cowboys reportedly had interest in Schofield early on in the free agent period, but nothing ever came of it., He's still out there and is 29-years-old.

Dwight Freeney - Okay, kind of a long shot but as a situational pass rusher for the Cardinals last season, he was on fire the final months of the season.

Greg Hardy - Just kiddin'!

What say you BTB? Any interest in these names? Have another free agent that's still out there that peaks your interest?